A hazardous chemical leak in Orange County prompted broad evacuations Tuesday after a yellow smoke plume began spreading through the air.
Firefighters, first responders and specialized hazmat teams were called to the area near 334 S Cypress St. in La Habra following reports of a dangerous chemical reaction involving nitric acid and phosphoric acid.
Authorities ordered a mandatory evacuation for residents and businesses within a one-mile radius of the affected site.
La Habra Mayor José Medrano said in a social media post that the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) and the Los Angeles County Fire Department were investigating a chemical leak in the 500 block of South Cypress.
“All areas east of Euclid St to Harbor Blvd and Cypress St between La Habra Blvd and Lambert Rd are blocked off evacuations are being made, please stay out of the area,” Medrano said in the latest update.
Officials cautioned that the rising plume may contain toxic fumes. Anyone downwind who cannot evacuate right away is urged to shelter indoors immediately, keep windows closed and turn off HVAC systems.
At least one person suffered minor injuries, while paramedics were assessing three additional patients who were experiencing varying levels of physical distress, according to reports.
Fire crews are trying to pinpoint the source of the leak, believed to be a damaged storage tank, as they work to contain the chemical reaction before shifting atmospheric conditions push the plume deeper into nearby neighborhoods.
