MCARTHUR, OH — Emergency crews and state environmental officials responded swiftly Wednesday to a hazardous gas release at the Austin Powder chemical plant in Vinton County. The incident prompted a temporary evacuation of nearby Zaleski, but officials say the chemical plume has since dissipated and the evacuation order has been lifted.
According to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an unknown substance entered a 5,000-gallon tank containing nitric acid, triggering a chemical reaction that released nitrogen oxide gas into the atmosphere. The gas release began around 9:44 a.m. and has now been fully contained, with no new emissions detected.
✅ Key Developments:
- No injuries were reported at the plant.
- The nitrogen oxide plume has dissipated, and air quality monitoring has shown no elevated levels of the gas in surrounding areas.
- The evacuation order for Zaleski was officially lifted at 4:40 p.m. by the Zaleski Fire Department.
- Drinking water and groundwater are currently not believed to be impacted, though Austin Powder will conduct additional groundwater testing as a precaution.
Ohio EPA’s Office of Emergency Response is continuing to work closely with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, Ohio Department of Health, Vinton County Health Department, and local fire departments. Drones are also being used to monitor the site and surrounding areas from above.
The Ohio EPA is waiting for the tank’s internal temperature to decrease before it begins pH testing in nearby streams. So far, no contamination has been confirmed in local water systems.
⚠️ Health Advisory:
While the immediate risk has passed, residents should remain alert. Nitric acid and nitrogen oxide exposure can lead to respiratory irritation, shortness of breath, coughing, and in some cases, fluid buildup in the lungs, as well as eye and skin irritation. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
For more information or health-related concerns, contact the Vinton County Health Department at 740-596-5233.
