Tank spews toxic chemicals in Garden Grove prompting evacuation orders

GARDEN GROVE, Calif. (KABC) -- Evacuation orders have been reinstated after a 34,000-gallon tank spewed toxic chemicals into the sky Thursday afternoon at a facility in Garden Grove, prompting an emergency response.

"Due to changing conditions, evacuation orders are being reissued as a precautionary measure while mitigation operations continue," said the Orange County Fire Authority. "An inoperable valve on the tank has created additional operational challenges, preventing complete mitigation at this time."

The incident was reported at the GKN Aerospace facility on Western Avenue. Aerial footage from AIR7 showed the tank releasing what was described as hazardous material into the air.

According to the Orange County Fire Authority, the tank was leaking methyl methacrylate (MMA), a liquid used to make acrylic plastics. Evacuation orders were in place for areas north of Garden Grove Boulevard, east of Springdale Avenue, west of Dale Street and south of Orangewood Avenue, according to authorities.



The fire agency said an evacuation center was set up at Stanton City Hall/Community Center at 7800 Katella Avenue, in Stanton.



It's unclear what caused the spill. There were no immediate reports of injuries.

This is a developing story. This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.