Chlorine leak at a Texas chemical plant prompts officials to ask residents to stay inside

FREEPORT, Texas (AP) — A chlorine leak at a Texas chemical plant on Tuesday prompted officials to ask residents in two Texas cities near the facility to shelter in place.

Chlorine gas was released around 9 a.m. from a plant in Freeport that is owned by Olin Corp., according to Brazosport CAER, an organization that provides communication between residents and petrochemical industries in the area. Freeport is about 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of Houston.

Officials announced that the leak had been stopped around 9:45 a.m.

A request to shelter in place was issued shortly after the leak happened as a precaution for residents in Clute and Lake Jackson, officials said. The shelter in place request was lifted around 10:40 a.m.

It was not immediately known if there were any injuries due to the leak.

“The status of the chlorine leak has been contained and an all clear has been issued,” the Lake Jackson Police Department said on social media.

Clayton, Missouri-based Olin did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment.

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