Chemical Leak Prompts Shelter-in-Place for La Porte Residents

A shelter-in-place order was issued for La Porte residents in Texas following a chemical leak at the ALTIVIA Chemical Complex. The leak released phosgene, a colorless gas with a suffocating odor, prompting officials to urge residents in the affected area to seek shelter. The order was lifted after the company contained the release, and there were no detectable amounts of hazardous products near the facility. There was no impact on local schools, and those with non-emergency medical concerns related to the incident were advised to contact the non-emergency line. ALTIVIA Chemical Complex is a producer of phosgene derivative intermediates and operates a large production facility for phenol, acetone, and alpha-methyl styrene.