Ohio Chemical Spill: Nitric Acid Leak Triggers Mass Evacuations and Flight Groundings

A significant chemical spill in McArthur, Ohio, has led to a mass evacuation order following the leak of nitric acid from a tank at the Austin Powder Red Diamond plant. The incident, reported on June 11, 2025, prompted local authorities to evacuate residents in the Zaleski area and impose a no-fly zone over a 3,700-square-mile radius surrounding the site of the leak.

According to Robert Czechlewski, the Jackson County Emergency Management Director, the leak was detected around 8:30 AM local time when a 5,000-gallon tank of nitric acid ruptured. The situation escalated as a visible plume of orange gas emerged, alarming local residents and prompting immediate emergency responses. The Vinton County Sheriff’s Office issued an evacuation order that impacted hundreds of individuals, with a shelter established at Vinton County High School for those displaced.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) subsequently banned nearly all flights in the vicinity, allowing only 'relief flights' to operate within the designated no-fly zone. The FAA's decision aimed to ensure the safety of both residents and air traffic, with the no-fly zone extending 30 nautical miles from the plant and up to 23,000 feet in altitude.

Local meteorologists have warned that the effects of the gas could worsen as temperatures drop overnight. "During the day, warmer temperatures allow gases to rise and disperse more easily, but as the sun sets, the boundary layer shrinks, causing the toxic gas to become more concentrated at the surface," explained a spokesperson from The Weather Channel.

Health officials have alerted residents to watch for symptoms associated with exposure to nitric acid, which include irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, and throat, as well as dizziness and potential unconsciousness. Brad Price, an official with the Vinton County Health Department, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "The cloud of nitric acid is dissipating, but residents should remain vigilant for any symptoms."

Fortunately, as of the latest reports, no injuries or fatalities have been recorded due to this incident. Emergency crews and hazardous materials teams are actively managing the site to mitigate further risks. The response from local law enforcement and health departments underscores the urgency and seriousness of industrial chemical spills, particularly those involving hazardous materials like nitric acid.

In light of this event, experts are calling for a review of safety protocols at chemical plants nationwide. Dr. Emily Carter, an environmental safety expert at Ohio State University, noted that "incidents like this highlight the need for stringent regulations and emergency preparedness plans to protect communities from industrial accidents."

The implications of this incident extend beyond immediate health concerns; it raises questions about regulatory oversight and the preparedness of local authorities to handle such emergencies. As investigations continue, residents are urged to remain cautious and informed about developments related to the spill and its aftermath. Authorities expect that the evacuation order may remain in effect for an extended period as they assess the situation and ensure public safety.

Looking ahead, the Austin Powder plant’s operations and safety measures will likely be scrutinized, prompting a broader discussion about industrial safety standards in Ohio and across the country. The community's resilience will be tested as they navigate the aftermath of this alarming chemical spill, with ongoing support from local and state authorities.