<div><img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2026/05/25/multimedia/25nat-oc-tank-NEW-mvbp/25nat-oc-tank-NEW-mvbp-facebookJumbo.jpg" class="ff-og-image-inserted"></div><p>A potential explosion risk from an unstable tank containing toxic methyl methacrylate in a Southern California suburb has been mitigated, according to a video statement from the Orange County Fire Authority released Monday. Authorities indicated the tank’s pressure relief continued and internal temperatures had fallen, reducing the immediate danger.</p><p>Officials said the threat of an explosion is “now off the table,” as the incident progresses toward stabilization.</p><p>Evacuation orders remain in effect for more than 40,000 residents around Garden Grove while authorities assess safety for a possible return home.</p><p>Senator Thomas J. Umberg, the local representative, expressed cautious optimism that the greatest danger may be eliminated but urged residents to remain patient about returning, noting that safety could not yet be guaranteed.</p><p>Firefighters initially responded to an industrial site where a tank containing about 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate was becoming pressurized and releasing gas as overheating occurred.</p><p>Exposure to methyl methacrylate can irritate eyes and skin and cause respiratory difficulties, with animal studies noting potential birth defects. Evacuation orders were issued as the tank temperature rose and the tank bulged; a crack and a drop in temperature were later observed, signaling reduced internal pressure.</p><p>Incident officials stated that the crack has relieved pressure and marked a positive turn in the response as teams monitor conditions.</p><p>The district attorney’s office announced an ongoing investigation into the company involved, a British manufacturer supplying jet engine parts and other components for aircraft.</p><p>Shawn Hubler contributed reporting.</p><p><strong><a href="https://blockads.fivefilters.org">Adblock test</a></strong> <a href="https://blockads.fivefilters.org/acceptable.html">(Why?)</a></p>
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