"Some 900 People Evacuated Immediately"... Chemical Tank Explosion in Ohio

Smoke blankets the road, making it impossible to see an inch ahead.

Emergency firefighters have stepped in to handle the accident site.

On the 20th local time, a chemical storage tank exploded at a chemical plant in Toledo, Ohio, U.S.

An immediate evacuation order was issued for about 900 residents within a 1-mile radius, and a shelter-in-place order was issued for residents within 3 miles.

[Wade Kapszukiewicz / Mayor of Toledo: Unfortunately, gas is venting right now. We are also concerned because there are other tanks nearby. There are concerns that an explosion could occur.]

So far, at least one deputy sheriff has been injured in the accident, and more than 20 residents have been taken to hospitals for treatment.

School closures have also been ordered in the affected area.

[Linda Ragland / Toledo Resident: The smell was so strong, I had to cover my mouth and nose entirely. The inside of the house turned completely hazy, and it was so frightening. When my nose started burning, I knew right away something was serious.]

The chemical company announced that the exploded storage tank contained a chemical substance that improves the performance of paint coatings.

[Tiffany Morrissey / Toledo Fire and Rescue: Hazardous materials crews were dispatched to the scene and cooperated with the Ohio EPA, and while toxic substances have not yet been identified, air quality is being continuously monitored.]

The fire department advised people not to go outside until safety is confirmed, stating that contact with the chemical can cause a burning sensation on the skin, and excessive exposure may cause headaches, dizziness, and vomiting.

In particular, even the risk of chain explosions is being raised, raising concerns of additional damage.

(Video Editing: Park Eun-ha)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.