One person has died and several others have been injured after a hydrogen sulfide release at a Texas refinery.
The incident occurred at a Pemex factory in Deer Park, with the cities of Pasadena and Deer Park now issuing shelter-in-place orders.
Officials have said one person had to be airlifted from the scene.
Local residents have been told to go indoors, close their windows and doors and keep their air conditioners turned off until the all clear.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said, “All information remains preliminary as the situation remains fluid.
“Our team is responding. The situation appears to be confined to the scene and not a threat to the external community.”
Officials have said one person had to be airlifted from the scene
Earlier in the day, Pemex had said it was carrying out activities that could cause flaring
Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas that is not one because of its strong odor. It is extremely flammable and very poisonous.
The Pemex refinery is responsible for the production of gasoline, jet fuel and marine fuel. It produces 312,500 barrels per day.
Earlier in the day, Pemex had said it was carrying out activities that could cause flaring.
In a statement, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said, “I am aware of the chemical leak at the Pemex plant in Deer Park.
“At this time there are reports of at least one death and several 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 stands ready to provide any additional assistance requested.
“Our primary concern is to ensure that the leak has stopped and that the leaked materials do not impact the residents of the province. We will send more updates as we receive them.”