Ohio Chemical Leak: Town Evacuated
- A chemical leak at a powder plant near Zaleski, Ohio, resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of residents Wednesday.
- Robert Czechlewski, a local emergency official, reported that a 5,000-gallon tank at the plant had leaked, releasing approximately 3,000 gallons of nitric acid.The cause of the leak is...
- The Vinton County Sheriff’s Office announced that a shelter was established at Vinton County high School for displaced residents.
Ohio Chemical Leak Prompts Evacuations in Zaleski
Updated June 11, 2025
A chemical leak at a powder plant near Zaleski, Ohio, resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of residents Wednesday. The incident involved a meaningful release of toxic nitric acid,according to local emergency officials.
Robert Czechlewski, a local emergency official, reported that a 5,000-gallon tank at the plant had leaked, releasing approximately 3,000 gallons of nitric acid.The cause of the leak is currently under examination. The plant, located in McArthur, manufactures explosives for the mining and construction industries.
The Vinton County Sheriff’s Office announced that a shelter was established at Vinton County high School for displaced residents. Zaleski, with a population of just over 200, is located about 90 minutes southeast of Columbus.
(Ohio EPA)
According to Czechlewski, the nitric acid release created a chemical reaction, resulting in a plume of nitric oxide resembling a red cloud. The National Library of Medicine notes that nitric acid is a toxic liquid when inhaled and corrosive to both metals and tissue. Nitric oxide, a gas, poses similar risks through inhalation or skin absorption.
The Ohio EPA reported that the chemical release has stopped, and no injuries have been reported. A plant spokeswoman confirmed that all employees are safe. Most workers were temporarily dismissed, while a few remained to conduct assessments. Production at the plant is suspended for the remainder of the day.
“My team and I are closely monitoring the chemical leak in McArthur and remain in contact with federal, state, and local authorities on the situation. Please stay safe, follow local guidance, and reach out to my Columbus office if we can help.”
What’s next
Authorities will continue to monitor air quality in the area. Czechlewski indicated that the situation’s duration depends on wind conditions,with the plume currently heading northeast. Once the leak is fully contained, the Environmental Protection Agency will conduct further air quality assessments.