A chemical leak at the Pemex Deer Park oil refinery in Texas resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to nearly 35 others. The leak, which involved hydrogen sulfide, prompted a shelter-in-place order for the cities of Deer Park and Pasadena. The refinery processes crude oil to produce gasoline and other fuels.
Hydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic and flammable gas with a foul odor resembling rotten eggs. It is used in oil and gas refining, mining, tanning, and paper processing. The gas can be dangerous, especially in confined spaces, as it is heavier than air. The cause of the leak at Pemex Deer Park remains under investigation.
Officials lifted the shelter-in-place order after air monitoring reports from multiple agencies deemed the area safe. The City of Deer Park reassured the community that there was no longer a hazard. The incident is being investigated by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the extent of injuries suffered by those affected has not been disclosed.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with chemical leaks in industrial facilities. It highlights the importance of proper safety protocols and monitoring to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
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