Massive Leak of Liquified Chlorine Gas - (Henderson, Nevada - May 6, 1991)

A massive leak of liquified chlorine gas created a dangerous cloud of poison gas over the city of Henderson, Nevada, in the early morning hours of May 6, 1991. Over 200 persons were examined at a local hospital for respiratory distress caused by inhalation of the chlorine and approximately 30 were admitted for treatment. Approximately 700 individuals were taken to shelters. It is estimated that from 2,000 to 7,000 individuals were taken elsewhere.

» Overview
» Key Issues
» Location
» Origin of the Leak
» Emergency Response
» Strategic Considerations
» Expanding Gas Cloud
» Evacuation
» Leak Control
» Lessons Learned

Reproduced from Report 052 of the Major Fires Investigation Project conducted by TriData Corporation under contract EMW-90-C-3338 to the United States Fire Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency. Report by: J. Gordon Routley

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