Chemical leak triggers emergency in Texas

A chemical accident at Pemex's Deer Park oil refinery in Texas reportedly resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to five others on Thursday. Authorities have urged local residents to remain indoors and keep their air conditioners off until an all-clear is given.

The leak was reported around 4:40pm local time, triggering emergency protocols. According to initial reports, a contractor working at the refinery, owned by the Mexican state-owned petroleum company, accidentally opened a line containing highly toxic hydrogen sulfide gas.

Two individuals, including the contractor, are believed to be dead, and at least five more are injured. Authorities have confirmed one fatality, while another victim was seen being airlifted from the scene by a Life Flight helicopter.

“To mitigate the impact, the operation of the coking unit and hydro treating units was proactively stopped, and safety venting was carried out, notifying the authorities according to established protocols,” said the Mexican state-owned petroleum company, which own the plant.

Pemex further claimed that “no impact on the community has been reported.”

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However, in response to the leak, a shelter-in-place order was issued for all residents of Deer Park and surrounding areas. The City of Pasadena also issued a similar order.

Residents have been advised to remain indoors, close their windows and doors, and keep their air conditioners turned off until an all-clear is given.

Hydrogen sulfide is used in various industrial processes, including petroleum production and refining. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of the gas can be fatal.