City leaders in Toledo, Ohio, said an explosion at a chemical facility forced evacuation and shelter-in-place orders as officials try to limit exposure to the airborne substance.
A thick haze over the 265,000-person city originated from the MC Tank Terminal around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, officials said.
The company focuses on transporting and storing liquid chemicals in bulk.
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Toledo Fire Department leaders identified the chemical as glycidyl methacrylate, an industrial material used in coating, paint and plastics.
The chemical can cause burning of the eyes, nose, mouth and skin.
People living within a 1-mile radius of the facility were ordered to evacuate the area, while those residing within a 3-mile radius were told to shelter in place. Those staying in their residence were instructed to turn off any ventilation systems.
Officials said they don’t know what caused the explosion.
No injuries have been reported from facility employees or residents living close to the plant. But authorities urged drivers to be cautious on the road due to the fog-like conditions throughout the city.
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