An unprecedented nitric acid leak at the Austin Powder Red Diamond Plant in Ohio sent orange-brown clouds into the sky, forcing the evacuation of nearby communities. With about 3,000 gallons leaking from an enormous tank, emergency measures included road closures and a no-fly zone.
Immediate Response and Evacuations
The hazardous leak at the Austin Powder Red Diamond Plant in McArthur, Ohio, resulted in mass evacuations, including the Village of Zaleski. A shelter was quickly set up at Vinton County High School to accommodate displaced residents.
A temporary 30-nautical-mile no-fly zone was enforced around the site by the Federal Aviation Administration. Nearby roads were closed to limit access and reduce health risks, with no injuries reported at this time.
Health Hazards and Safety Protocols
The leak released nitrogen oxide gas, known to cause respiratory issues and other health problems. Emergency officials advised those exposed to flush their eyes and skin thoroughly and seek medical attention if symptoms persisted.
#BREAKING: Major Toxic Chemical Leak Triggers Mass Evacuation in Ohio
5,000 gallons of nitric acid leaked at Zaleski, OH, Austin Powder explosives plant
Entire town evacuated
FAA declares 30-mile no-fly zone (up to 23,000 ft)
Red Cross sets up shelters; HAZMAT crews on scene… pic.twitter.com/DUwQz2HnkH— upuknews (@upuknews1) June 11, 2025
The toxic plume moved south under the influence of wind conditions, affecting the timeline for lifting the evacuation orders. Residents were cleared to return by late afternoon the same day as winds dispersed the gases over a wider area.
Investigation Underway
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency reported that the release of nitrogen oxide gas has stopped, yet the leak’s root cause remains unknown. Investigations by authorities are ongoing to determine the specifics of this hazardous incident.
“About 3,000 gallons of nitric acid was released from an enormous tank at the Austin Powder Red Diamond Plant in McArthur – which manufactures explosives used for mining and construction – around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, a Vinton County spokesperson told WLWT.”
The community awaits answers as experts work to identify how this dangerous situation unfolded, ensuring future preventive measures. The incident reminds everyone of the potential dangers associated with chemical plants and emergency protocols to safeguard public health.
Sources:
https://www.foxweather.com/extreme-weather/ohio-massive-chemical-leak-explosives-plant-vinton-county