FIRST ALERT: WCK is en route to Garden Grove, California after a toxic chemical leak

World Central Kitchen’s Relief Team is on our way to Garden Grove, California to assess food and water needs after a hazardous materials emergency at the GKN Aerospace facility.

A damaged tank holding 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate—a highly flammable and toxic industrial chemical—remains unstable and at risk of leaking or exploding. Approximately 40,000 residents are under evacuation orders or warnings across a three-square-mile zone. Schools are closed, eight evacuation centers are active, and authorities are working to stabilize the tank as conditions remain dangerous and unresolved. Displaced community members face health concerns, economic disruption, and an uncertain timeline for returning home.

This remains a quickly evolving situation. You can sign up to our newsletter to receive more information and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for real time updates.