State of Emergency Declared Over OC Chemical Tank at Risk of Exploding

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in Orange County due to a chemical tank at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove that is at risk of exploding or leaking. The tank contains 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a toxic liquid used to make plastic.

Tens of thousands of residents have been evacuated from a large area of northern Orange County. Officials are working 24/7 to cool the tank and prevent a catastrophic failure.

- The evacuation zone spans from Ball Road to Trask Avenue and Dale Street to Valley View Street. - The tank's temperature has risen to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, increasing about one degree per hour.

- If the tank fails, it could cause an explosion or release toxic vapors that cause respiratory issues. - State resources, including the Costa Mesa Fairgrounds, are being used as evacuation shelters.

The situation remains critical, with officials preparing for the worst while hoping for a safe resolution.