GARDEN GROVE, CA (AP/AZFamily) — The threat of a catastrophic explosion at a Southern California aerospace plant has been eliminated after a damaged chemical tank cracked and relieved pressure overnight, officials say.
The development eases fears of a possible blast that forced evacuations affecting about 50,000 people near the Garden Grove facility.
The evacuation order declared by Gov. Gavin Newsom remains in place, Orange County Fire Authority division chief Craig Covey said Monday morning. Covey said the results of overnight evaluation of the tank was “incredibly positive news.”
Firefighters worked through the weekend to cool the tank filled with about 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, which is a toxic chemical used in making plastics. Garden Grove is about 350 miles west of Phoenix and roughly 250 miles from Yuma.
***INCIDENT UPDATE***
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— OCFA (@OCFireAuthority) May 25, 2026
Local environmental disaster expert Steve Brittle told Arizona’s Family that if the tank did explode, any impacts beyond Southern California would depend on wind conditions, but chemical fumes could potentially reach Arizona.
The Environmental Protection Agency says methyl methacrylate is corrosive, and exposure can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues and headaches. Brittle said chemical exposure can produce similar symptoms across different incidents.
Nearby attractions Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm remained open through the weekend.
Shelters have been set up for evacuees, and some hotels are offering discounts. Health officials said the air should be safe outside the evacuation area, though many residents this weekend said they remain concerned.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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