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Yellow Smoke Plume Forces Evacuations in Orange County
9 Sep
Summary
- A chemical leak caused a yellow smoke plume, triggering evacuations.
- Mandatory evacuations were issued for residents within a one-mile radius.
- Emergency crews contained the leak, and air quality is being monitored.
On Tuesday, a hazardous chemical leak in La Habra, Orange County, led to mandatory evacuations for residents and businesses within a one-mile radius. The incident originated from a factory producing industrial chemicals, where a compromised storage tank is believed to have caused a reaction involving nitric and phosphoric acid. This reaction produced a plume of yellow smoke, prompting a swift response from first responders and specialized hazmat crews. Officials advised those downwind to seek immediate shelter indoors, close windows, and shut off HVAC systems if evacuation was not possible.
Emergency personnel confirmed the leak originated from a storage tank. Los Angeles County Fire Department stated that responding units mitigated the leak, and the plume has since dissipated. Hazmat teams have verified control of the situation, and air is under constant monitoring. Authorities reported that at least one person sustained minor injuries, with three others being evaluated for physical distress. There is currently no active risk to residents.
