Westminster, 23 May 2026

Around 40,000 residents were evacuated in Southern California on May 23, 2026, due to a dangerous chemical leak threatening to explode.

A chemical tank containing up to 26,500 liters of methyl methacrylate in Westminster, Southern California, began leaking, raising fears of an explosion. Local fire officials warned the tank could rupture or explode, posing a significant risk to nearby communities.

Craig Covey of the local fire department stated, 'Er könnte Risse bekommen und auslaufen, oder er könnte explodieren,' highlighting the immediate danger. The chemical, used in industrial processes, can be hazardous if not contained properly.

The evacuation zone includes parts of Westminster, Garden Grove, and Anaheim in Orange County. Authorities urged residents to leave immediately and seek shelter in designated safe areas.