Port Arthur, Texas – Unified Command reports ongoing response efforts at TPC Group Port Neches Operations remain focused on safely bringing the event to an end.
Situational update: There have been no significant changes in the response efforts since Update #25. Response efforts continue to focus on activities to secure site equipment and minimize impact to the environment, while preserving the safety of emergency responders.
On Monday (December 9), TPC Group began introducing DEHA (Diethylhydroxylamine) to storage tanks containing butadiene to stabilize the materials for longer-term storage, transportation, and removal from the site. TPC Group is introducing DEHA into 11 storage tanks containing butadiene using portable equipment. This is a phased process. All tanks containing materials are being evaluated and identified for inhibitor introduction, therefore the number of tanks receiving DEHA may change. No off-site impacts or public health concerns are anticipated as part of the DEHA process.
Plans are underway to safely transfer all remaining materials from the site, based on mechanical integrity inspections of tanks. All tanks containing materials are being evaluated and prioritized for transfer. Options to safely transport materials from the site are being assessed.
Friday morning (December 6), Unified Command identified small fires in the impacted area on site. These small residual fires were anticipated and are being contained. Response teams continue to monitor and assess.
Air Monitoring update: Air monitoring readings remain below actionable levels in the community. Unified Command, comprised of federal, state, local agencies and TPC Group, remains diligent in efforts to monitor air quality. Monitors are providing real-time air quality data to Unified Command. In the last 24-hours, experts have collected 6,187 air monitoring readings in the community using stationary and roaming air monitors, all of which are below actionable levels.
As response efforts at Port Neches Operations remain stable, experts continue to evaluate monitoring data, and anticipate the monitoring area will be reduced and the quantity of stationary and roaming air readings will decrease. Occasional elevated air measurements may continue to register as response teams secure the site.
Traffic Update: Traffic updates will continue to be provided, as available. Click for a map of street closures. The latest traffic information follows.
Open – Grigsby Avenue at Spur 136
Closed – Portions of Spur 136 near TPC Port Neches Operations remain closed, including:
- Intersection of Spur 136 at Highway 366
- Spur 136 to Highway 366 in front of TPC Port Neches Operations
- Highway 366 between Spur 136 & Park Street
Public Information Update: Unified Command has migrated to a new Facebook page. Community members are encouraged to follow the page for updates at http://facebook.com/portnechesuc.
Updates and information will continue to be posted:
On the web: www.portnechesresponse.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PortNechesUC
Twitter: @PortNechesUC
U.S. EPA: www.response.epa.gov/south4groupfire