Toxic leak sparks mass evacuation near Los Angeles

Tens of thousands of residents across Southern California were ordered to evacuate Friday after a dangerous chemical leak sparked fears of a possible explosion and a toxic smoke cloud near Los Angeles.

The emergency unfolded in Orange County, where a 26,000-liter tank carrying methyl methacrylate  a highly flammable chemical commonly used in plastic manufacturing  began leaking in the city of Garden Grove, authorities said.

Fire officials warned the situation could quickly escalate, potentially triggering a major explosion or releasing hazardous fumes over densely populated neighborhoods. The leak also raised concerns about severe environmental contamination if the chemical reaches local waterways or the Pacific Ocean, located just a few kilometers away.

Around 40,000 people were placed under evacuation orders, but officials said thousands were still refusing to leave their homes despite the risks. “This is a very serious situation,” Garden Grove Police Chief Amir El-Farra told reporters as emergency crews worked to secure the area.

No injuries have been reported so far, and authorities have not yet determined what caused the leak. Crews spent hours installing protective barriers and containment systems in an effort to stop the toxic substance from spreading further.

The incident has turned parts of Orange County into a tense emergency zone, with residents anxiously waiting to see whether firefighters can bring the situation under control before it becomes a full-scale disaster.