Oct 11, 2008 10:12 pm US/Eastern
Chemical Leak Leads To Evacuations In Petrolia
PETROLIA (KDKA) ―
A chemical leak at a plant in Petrolia has been contained but an evacuation order remains in effect.
The incident began just after 5 p.m. at the INDESPEC plant.
At least 500 people have been evacuated.
The chemical, Oleum, was released in a small chemical cloud that led to the evacuation of residents in a triangle-shaped area just north of Karns City and south of Bruin, and west to Route 38.
Residents who live within a two-mile radius of the plant are now being advised to stay indoors and avoid letting outside air into their homes.
Right now, Route 268 from Route 68 to Bruin remains closed to all traffic.
Route 38 is also closed from Hooker to North Washington.
Oleum is remaining in the air because there is no wind to move the cloud away from the area.
Oleum is an irritant to the lungs and eyes.
It can cause serious skin burns in close contact.
So far there are no reports of serious injuries.
Residents who evacuated are currently at the Bruin Fire Hall, Karns City High School, and the North Washington VFD Social Hall.
Stay with KDKA for more details.
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