TOLEDO, Ohio (WOWO) — Emergency crews are responding to a hazardous materials incident at a north Toledo chemical terminal, where a chemical release has prompted evacuation orders and shelter-in-place instructions for nearby residents.

People within one mile of the incident area have been ordered to evacuate, while those within three miles but outside the evacuation zone have been told to shelter indoors.

The incident began Tuesday night, October 20, at MC Tank’s terminal at 1266 Progress Avenue. Officials initially identified a nearby facility as the location before clarifying that the release originated at MC Tank.

According to the Associated Press, the chemical involved is glycidyl methacrylate, an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of certain plastics, paints and coatings. MC Tank confirmed that equipment associated with its operations was involved in the incident.

The release prompted evacuations at nearby facilities as firefighters and hazardous-materials crews worked to assess the situation.

What Residents Should Do

Toledo Fire & Rescue has established two protective-action zones around the terminal:

• Within one mile: Evacuate immediately and follow instructions from emergency personnel.
• Within three miles, outside the evacuation zone: Shelter in place until officials provide further guidance.

Residents sheltering in place should remain indoors, close windows and doors, and turn off heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems that draw in outside air. Drivers in the affected area should set vehicle ventilation systems to recirculate interior air.

Officials have warned that the chemical may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, mouth and skin. Reported symptoms of overexposure can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Anyone concerned about possible exposure should seek medical advice, and anyone experiencing a serious medical emergency should call 911.

Authorities have cautioned residents not to rely on the appearance of fog or haze to determine whether they are safe. Emergency personnel are monitoring conditions and assessing the potential exposure risk.

Shelters and Road Closures

Matzinger Road has been reported closed as emergency crews continue working at the scene.

A command post has been established at the Meijer parking lot on East Alexis Road, where TARTA buses and the American Red Cross are assisting residents who need transportation or temporary shelter.

Shoreland Elementary School has also been opened as a temporary shelter for people displaced by the evacuation.

Residents seeking information about the response can contact Engage Toledo at 419-936-2020. Anyone facing an immediate emergency should call 911.

Schools and Nearby Facilities Affected

The incident has also affected nearby businesses and facilities. Workers reported that the Toledo Assembly Complex was evacuated Tuesday night, although confirmation from Stellantis was being sought in the initial reporting.

Toledo Public Schools and Washington Local Schools announced closures for Wednesday as a precaution, according to local reporting.

Investigation Continues

The cause of the chemical release remains under investigation. MC Tank said equipment associated with its operations was involved and that it was working with fire officials and other emergency authorities.

(Photo supplied / WTOL 11, Toledo)

Emergency crews and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are monitoring air quality and evaluating conditions around the terminal. Officials have said protective orders will remain subject to reassessment as the response continues.

Residents are urged to follow directions from emergency personnel and monitor official announcements for changes to evacuation boundaries, shelter-in-place instructions and road closures.

Source: WTOL 11 and The Associated Press.