Evacuations lifted in Port Orange following chemical leak: officials

Evacuations have been lifted following a hazardous materials situation in Port Orange, Florida, officials said.

Leaders stated the incident took place around 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, at a wastewater treatment plant off Oak Street in Volusia County.

How did the hazmat incident start?

What they're saying:

The Port Orange Police Department said the incident took place due to a third-party vendor who offloaded a chemical into the wrong tank.

Authorities said the incident was caused due to a chlorine leak. 

Evacuations ordered

What we know:

The Port Orange Professional Firefighters Association posted on its socials asking people to avoid the area of Oak Street and Spruce Creek Road.

Evacuations were being ordered about a quarter of a mile to the south and southeast of the area, leaders said. 

A shelter also was put in place about a quarter of a mile to the north of the area, the social media posts stated.

Can people return to their homes?

What's next:

Volusia County Fire Rescue said the scene of the incident still is active. 

However, the Port Orange Police Department stated residents now can return to their homes. 

What we don't know:

The FOX 35 news team currently is working to gather more information about the incident.

This is a developing story. Check back soon for more updates. 

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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Port Orange Professional Firefighters Association, the Port Orange Police Department and Volusia County Fire Rescue.

Volusia CountyPort OrangeCrime and Public Safety