More than 250,000 inhabitants of the American city of Toledo, in the state of Ohio, remain on alert after a leak of highly toxic gas recorded during the early hours of the morning. The incident has triggered the mandatory evacuation of residents located within a one-and-a-half-kilometer radius of the affected point, orders to remain confined in the surrounding areas, and the total closure of the city's schools for the entire day on Wednesday.
The leak, which has not been accompanied by any explosion, originated shortly after 9:00 PM on Tuesday, local time, at the MC Tank terminal, located in the northeast of Toledo. Authorities have not yet revealed what chemical compound it is, but have warned that it causes severe irritation to the skin and eyes, as well as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and episodes of vomiting.
In case of direct contact or prolonged exposure, emergency services insist that those potentially affected must receive medical attention immediately. So far, no fatalities or injuries related to this incident have been reported, according to the first official assessments.
"The risk area covers a radius of 4.8 kilometers around number 1050 Progress Avenue," the city council has explained on its website. "If you live or work within 4.8 kilometers of that address, stay at home, remain where you are, indoors, close the doors and windows, and turn off air conditioning units," it recommends.
To address the emergency, local authorities have set up two temporary shelters to accommodate the evacuees, while the American Red Cross has joined in recent hours to assist and support the affected population.