Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data indicates that the leak and the fire, which blazed over three days, produced one of the largest accidental releases of flammable chemicals since 1994, when the agency began monitoring such hazardous facility incidents across the US.
Eleven of the 17 residents interviewed in Garyville, Lions and Reserve told the Guardian they experienced symptoms associated with chemical exposure, including breathing problems, migraines, burning eyes and sore throats. Some sought medical attention and one later became critically ill, linking his symptoms to the fire.
The St John parish government did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Marathon did not respond to a series of detailed questions, but said in a statement that it operated its facilities “with the highest commitment to the safety and health of our workers and the community”. The company said this included working with and notifying “regulatory authorities and other stakeholders during and after an incident with integrity”.
Much more in the link. Read the details of the suffering community and lies told by Marathon Petroleum.
Jaak