The shelter-in-place has been lifted for Deer Park AND for Galena Park.
A shelter-in-place order was issued today for two east Harris County towns as air quality officials monitor a detection of benzene at the ITC chemical facility that caught fire a few days ago.
Officials at Intercontinental Terminals Co say, “action levels of benzene” were detected around 3 this morning at the site of the fire. Spokeswoman Alice Richardson, says that the release happened when the foam covering the tank shifted due to the winds.
About 5 a.m., a shelter-in-place was expanded to cover the entire city of Deer Park.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says the Galena Park Mayor also ordered a shelter-in-place out of an abundance of caution, but elevated levels of benzene have not been detected in the area.
County Officials say residents should remain indoors or inside an enclosed space.
All pets should also be put inside.
People are also being told to close all doors, turn off air conditioning or heating and close any fireplace dampers to "keep chemical vapors from entering."
Any holes, gaps or cracks should also be covered with a wet towel or sheet to keep toxic vapors out of homes.
Authorities at The Harris County Office of Emergency Management say one National Guard unit, with the 6th Civil Support Team, is helping local officials with air monitoring operations in the Deer Park area.