No Air Quality or Chemical Concerns Outside Evacuation Zone in Akron Hazmat Situation: Akron Mayor

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan Reassures Residents of Lack of Danger Beyond Evacuation Area

During a press conference on Thursday, Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan assured residents that there are no air quality or chemical concerns outside the evacuation zone established in response to a hazardous materials situation in Akron.

The incident began on Wednesday evening when a Norfolk Southern train derailed near the city's North Hill neighborhood, releasing hazardous chemicals into the air.

Mayor Horrigan emphasized that air monitoring within the evacuation zone indicates that levels of hazardous chemicals are below levels of concern.

Evacuation Zone Remains in Place as Precaution

Despite the absence of concerns outside the evacuation zone, the mayor stressed that the evacuation order remains in effect for residents within the designated area as a precautionary measure.

The evacuation zone includes the area bounded by Cuyahoga Falls Avenue on the north, Ira Avenue on the east, East South Street on the south, and North Union Street on the west.

Residents within the evacuation zone are urged to remain out of the area until further notice and to follow instructions from emergency responders.

No Shelter-in-Place Order for Surrounding Areas

Mayor Horrigan confirmed that no shelter-in-place order has been issued for areas outside the evacuation zone.

He noted that air monitoring is ongoing and that the situation is being closely monitored by local, state, and federal agencies.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) is conducting air monitoring both inside and outside the evacuation zone.

Resources and Updates for Residents

The city of Akron has established a website and hotline for residents to stay informed about the situation.

• Website: https://www.akronohio.gov/hazmat
• Hotline: 330-375-2637

The city is also providing updates on social media through the following channels:

• Twitter: @akronohiogov
• Facebook: facebook.com/akronohiogov

Additional Information

For more information on hazardous materials incidents, please refer to the following resources:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Materials Information
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazardous Materials Incidents
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Chemical Terrorism and Hazmat