Massive Fire Breaks Out at Texas Chemical Facility

A huge industrial fire broke out at a chemical facility in Channelview, Texas, around 4 p.m. on April 7, Harris County officials said.

A shelter in place order was issued for neighborhoods near the K-Solve Chemicals plant located in the 1000 block of Lakeside Drive, including Lakeside Park Estates and Lakeview Homes.

Harris County Fire Marshall’s Office reported on April 8 that the fire had been put out but warned that reignition was a possibility. The Fire Marshall’s office is investigating the fire; the cause of the blaze is unknown.

In an April 7 Twitter posting, K-Solv, a provider of chemical distribution and maritime services, as well as renewable fuels, reported the “active situation occurring at the K-Solv Chemicals facility located in Channelview, TX. All employees are safe and accounted for. Firefighters and response crews are responding to the scene. We are monitoring the air quality and will have updates to follow.”

The HCFMO said in a Twitter posting that numerous agencies had responded to extinguish the fire and that the air around the plant is being monitored.

“Known chemicals on site include, but are not limited to: hydrochloric acid, acetone, ethanol, ethylene dichloride, and other acids,” according to the HCFMO.