One person has died and several others have been injured after a release of hydrogen sulfide at a Texas refinery.
The incident happened at a Pemex Plant in Deer Park, with the cities of Pasadena and Deer Park now issuing shelter-in-place orders.
Officials have said that one person had to be transported from the scene by a helicopter.
Local residents have been told to go indoors, close their windows and doors, and keep their air conditioners turned off until an all-clear is given.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said: ‘All info remains preliminary, as situation remains fluid.
‘Our team is responding. Situation seems contained to the scene, and no threat to the external community.’
Officials have said that one person had to be transported from the scene by a helicopter
Earlier in the day, Pemex had said it was performing activities that might cause flaring
Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas that is none for its strong odor. It is extremely flammable and highly toxic.
The Pemex refinery is responsible for producing gasoline, aviation fuel, and ship fuel. It produces 312,500-barrels-per-day.
Earlier in the day, Pemex had said it was performing activities that might cause flaring.
In a statement, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said: ‘I’m aware of the chemical leak at the Pemex plant in Deer Park.
‘At this time there are reports of at least one fatality and multiple injuries at the plant, and my heart goes out to their families and loved ones.
‘The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office and Harris County Pollution Control Services are on scene to assist and monitor the air.
‘Our Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management is standing by for any additional help that is requested.
‘Our primary concern is to ensure the leak has stopped and that the leaked materials are not impacting county residents. We will send more updates as we get them.’