At least two individuals have lost their lives, and around 35 others are injured following a chemical leak at an oil refinery on Thursday, which led authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order for two cities in East Texas.

The incident occurred at Pemex Deer Park, situated approximately 18 miles to the east of Houston, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies and the Deer Park Fire Department responded to reports of the leak at 5:23 p.m. local time, concerning the release of hydrogen sulfide, a colorless gas known for its strong and unpleasant odor.

The facility involved is a refinery that converts crude oil into gasoline and various fuels.

Officials issued a shelter-in-place alert for the cities of Deer Park and Pasadena following the leak.

Pemex chemical spill results in 2 deaths and 35 injured

In an initial notice on Thursday, officials reported injuries to several individuals and one fatality linked to the chemical incident.

By late Thursday evening, the sheriff’s office confirmed two deaths and stated that 35 individuals received medical attention due to the leak. The shelter-in-place order was subsequently revoked.

According to ABC News, Pemex Deer Park reported a “gas release occurring at one of its operating units” at approximately 4:40 p.m.

The cause of the leak is still being investigated, and the details surrounding the injuries have not been disclosed by officials.

YSL News has contacted Pemex and Deer Park Mayor Jerry Mouton for further comments.

Understanding Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide is a highly dangerous and combustible gas that has a thick smell similar to rotten eggs, as defined by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

This gas occurs naturally through the breakdown of organic materials by bacteria and is present in sewage, natural gas, and volcanic emissions.

Hydrogen sulfide is commonly utilized in the oil and gas industry, as well as in mining, tanning, and paper production. Its characteristics can pose serious risks in confined spaces due to its heavier-than-air nature, according to safety officials.

Investigation into the chemical leak continues

The sheriff’s office confirmed that their investigation was ongoing as of Friday morning.

The shelter-in-place order was lifted at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday after air quality assessments were conducted by Harris County Pollution Control, the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Hazardous Materials Response Team, and CTEH, as the sheriff’s office reported.

The City of Deer Park stated on social media, “We acknowledge the odor but assure there’s no danger to the community. Thank you for your understanding.”