After nearly two days of a chemical release at the MC Tank Terminal on Enterprise Boulevard, city officials announced Thursday that the tank has stopped leaking. The hazardous material, glycidyl methacrylate, was released for 47 hours before containment measures took effect.
Evacuation zone narrowed
Following the containment, the emergency‑response zone was reduced from a broader radius to a quarter‑mile around the site, according to WTOL, the local CBS News affiliate. The city’s shelter‑in‑place order was lifted, and the temporary emergency shelter that had been opened for displaced residents closed late Wednesday night as evacuees found alternative accommodations.
City and EPA collaboration
The City of Toledo released a statement confirming that crews are working closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a site‑safety plan. “We will turn the scene over to the U.S. EPA to work on cleanup,” the statement read.
MC Tanks Transport Inc., the operator of the terminal, reiterated its cooperation with investigators. “MC Tank Transport continues to cooperate with and support the authorities involved in the investigation,” a company representative said. “While we are relieved that the shelter‑in‑place order was lifted and the evacuation zone has been reduced, we will continue to be very cautious and methodical in how we approach all safety issues. Our primary focus remains the health and safety of our neighbors, the community overall, our employees, and the emergency responders. We remain committed to supporting those affected.”
Health impact and water safety
Local hospitals treated 57 people for symptoms related to the incident, with approximately seven still receiving care. The City of Toledo reported that none of the patients are in serious condition.
The EPA confirmed that there are no concerns about impacts on nearby creeks and rivers, and that the municipal drinking water remains safe and uncontaminated.
Assistance for remaining evacuees
Residents who still need help can contact the American Red Cross at 1‑800‑RED‑CROSS. The city continues to monitor air quality and will provide updates as the cleanup progresses.
Looking ahead
City officials emphasized that the incident underscores the importance of vigilant emergency‑response planning and strong partnerships between local government and federal agencies. The swift containment of the leak and the reduction of the evacuation zone demonstrate the effectiveness of those collaborations in protecting Toledo’s families and neighborhoods.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
