Chemical tank explosion in Toledo triggers evacuation of up to 1,000 residents

A tank at MC Tank Terminal in Toledo, Ohio, exploded late Tuesday, releasing the industrial chemical glycidyl methacrylate into the air. The incident injured a first-responder, who was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and prompted city officials to order the evacuation of roughly 1,000 people living within a one-mile radius.

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz told a news conference that residents within three miles were asked to shelter in place with windows sealed, while those closer were required to leave the area. He added that executives from the terminal were traveling to Toledo to assess the situation.

"We understand the seriousness of what has happened here," Kapszukiewicz said. "That’s why we took the actions that we did. That’s why we’re going to continue to monitor and communicate with the public throughout the day."

Local authorities warned that the airborne irritant can cause burning of the eyes, nose, mouth and skin, and advised anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or confusion to seek emergency care. The mayor explained that the chemical vaporizes when released but will revert to liquid if it settles back into the tank, reducing the risk of further explosions.

Visible fog and a plastic-like odor were reported across the city. Schools in the affected zone either closed or delayed opening on Wednesday as officials coordinated with businesses and residents about evacuation plans. The duration of the evacuation and shelter-in-place orders remains uncertain.