Chemical tank explodes in Toledo, forcing evacuations
Officials vent second tank as crews work to prevent another blast
A chemical tank exploded at an industrial facility in Toledo, Ohio, prompting evacuations and shelter-in-place orders as emergency crews worked to prevent a second tank containing the same hazardous chemical from exploding.
The incident began at the Moses-Schlachter Group facility, where tanks contained glycidyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in the production of coatings, adhesives and other materials. One tank ruptured and exploded, while rising pressure and temperature inside another raised fears that it could also fail.
Authorities evacuated residents and businesses within roughly a half-mile radius of the facility and issued a shelter-in-place order for a larger surrounding area. Officials warned people to stay indoors, close windows and doors and turn off ventilation systems that could draw outside air into buildings.
The Environmental Protection Agency said an operational error contributed to the emergency. According to federal officials, material was mistakenly transferred into a tank containing glycidyl methacrylate, triggering a chemical reaction that caused the tank's temperature and pressure to rise. The reaction eventually resulted in the explosion.
With the second tank also at risk, emergency officials allowed it to vent rather than attempting to completely contain the pressure. That process released a visible chemical plume into the air but reduced pressure inside the tank and lowered the risk of another explosion. Hazardous-material teams and environmental officials monitored air conditions around the site while the venting continued.
Officials said there were no immediate reports of serious injuries. Emergency crews continued monitoring the remaining tank and surrounding neighborhoods while authorities determined when evacuated residents could safely return home.
Glycidyl methacrylate can irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory system and is considered a fire hazard. Authorities said the primary immediate concern was the possibility of another explosion rather than widespread toxic exposure, although air monitoring continued as a precaution.
The incident remains under investigation, including how the material-transfer error occurred and whether additional safety measures could have prevented the reaction.