Chemical leak in Toledo forces evacuations and hospital visits

A hazardous chemical release of glycidyl methacrylate occurred at the MC Tank Transport terminal in north Toledo, Ohio, around 9:30 p.m. on October 20. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency stated the leak originated from a 5,500-gallon-capacity tank due to a transfer error. About 983 residents within a one-mile radius were ordered to evacuate, while those within three miles were told to shelter indoors, close windows and doors, and shut off ventilation drawing outside air. By 5 p.m. on October 21, at least 35 people sought hospital treatment for symptoms potentially related to the leak, and the mayor reported that a sheriff’s deputy was injured and drove himself to a hospital. Toledo Public Schools closed its 57 schools on October 21, and Washington Local Schools also canceled classes, affecting roughly 27,600 students. By 5 p.m. on October 21, officials reduced the evacuation zone to half a mile and lifted the shelter-in-place order. Officials stated there was no explosion, correcting an initial report from the mayor. Responders chose to let the tank vent rather than approach it due to fears that the material could cause an explosion.

This incident affects residents and families in the Toledo, Ohio area.