VINTON COUNTY, OHIO — A dangerous chemical leak at the Austin Powder Plant has escalated into a regional emergency after a 5,000-gallon tank of nitric acid released the chemical early this morning. Approximately 3,000 gallons of the highly corrosive substance into the environment. The release generated a massive toxic plume of nitric oxide, prompting a 3-mile evacuation radius and flight restrictions over a 39-mile zone.
Massive Hazmat Response and Airspace Lockdown
Emergency officials activated the Mass Notification System just before sunrise, alerting residents within a 3-mile radius of the plant in northern Vinton County to evacuate immediately. The Village of Zaleski, which was initially ordered to shelter in place, was later included in the evacuation order due to shifting wind patterns and the dangerous spread of airborne chemicals.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a temporary flight restriction (TFR) extending 39 miles around the site, effectively locking down airspace above and around the plant to ensure the safety of both emergency crews and aircraft.
Multiple HazMat teams from Vinton County and surrounding jurisdictions—including Athens, Jackson, and Ross counties—responded to the scene. Specialized crews are now working to assess environmental impact, neutralize the remaining acid, and monitor air quality.
Toxic Nitric Oxide Plume: Immediate and Long-Term Concerns
The orange haze observed rising from the Austin Powder facility was the result of nitric oxide, a dangerous gas formed when nitric acid reacts with oxygen. Nitric oxide can irritate the lungs, cause shortness of breath, and in high concentrations, lead to delayed pulmonary edema. Health officials are urging anyone exposed to seek medical evaluation immediately.
Experts warn that nitric acid spills can result in both immediate toxic exposure and long-term environmental damage if not contained swiftly. The incident is expected to trigger an investigation into safety protocols at the explosives manufacturing site.
Evacuation and Shelter Operations Underway
The Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter at Vinton County High School’s gymnasium in McArthur, offering food, water, and overnight accommodations for displaced residents. Buses remain staged at St. Sylvester Catholic Church in Zaleski to assist with evacuations.
Authorities have not reported any injuries at this time, but the situation remains fluid.
Community Demands Answers
Residents and environmental advocates are calling for full transparency from Austin Powder Company and state regulators. This is not the first safety concern tied to the facility, which handles large volumes of industrial chemicals for explosives production.
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