California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in Orange County following a hazardous situation at the GKN Aerospace facility in Garden Grove. A chemical tank at the site has been unstable for several days, with authorities warning of a potential spill or explosion involving a highly toxic chemical, methyl methacrylate.
Approximately 50,000 residents have been evacuated from the area, which includes parts of Garden Grove, West Anaheim, Cypress, and Stanton. The evacuation zone is defined by Trask Avenue to the north, Ball Road to the south, Valley View Street to the east, and Dale Street to the west. Some schools in the area were closed as a precaution.
The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) reported that a crew entered the site despite dangerous conditions to monitor the situation. The internal temperature of the tank has been rising at a rate of one degree per hour since Thursday morning. Experts from across the country are being consulted for alternative solutions to prevent a disaster.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed that the city is not affected and that the Los Angeles Fire Department is in contact with the OCFA, sending a Hazmat Specialist to assist if needed. Uber is providing free rides up to $40 for residents needing transportation to temporary shelters.
Evacuation shelters have been set up at various locations, including Oceanview High School and John F. Kennedy High School, with all locations accepting pets except for Golden West College. Residents can contact the Orange County Public Information Hotline for further assistance.
