On July 28, 2005, EPA Region 6 was notified of a large fire and heavy plume at the Valley Solvent and Chemical Company, Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas. Several explosions, injuries and nearby evacuations were reported. The smoke could be seen 30+ miles away in Dallas.
Valley Solvent and Chemical is a chemical repackaging facility located approximately four miles north of downtown Fort Worth. Valley maintains a large inventory and variety of hazardous substances in tanks, drums and smaller containers. The site is located in an industrial complex with adjacent residential areas located less than one mile to the south and west. The cause remains under investigation.
At approximately 0400 today, another water main ruptured and flooded the site. The additional flow threatened the containment structure. Contractors are attempting to berm the water at the site, while city Public Works is attempting to cease flow and repair the break.
What is believed to be HCl is leaking from a storage tank into the accumulated water.
Water presently contained in the storm water system is yielding pH readings of 2-5. TCEQ requested START and EPA support with the HAPSITE to accelerate analytical efforts. START is on-scene and coordinating with TCEQ and others for that. Results indicate perchloroethylene and other solvents at ppb levels. Field analysis will conclude today, and confirmatory samples will be sent by TCEQ to a laboratory.
TCEQ and City of Fort Worth continue to manage the removal / treatment of contaminated runoff water, now estimated at two million gallons
Fractionation tanks are staged at the containment dam to process contaminated runnoff for later disposal.
Evaluate potential disposal to POTW
Continue water analysis efforts through the day
Control inflow of water to the site
Evaluate water management options
Two million gallons or more of contaminated runoff water (pH = 2-5) discharged / flushed from the storm water system and contained.
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