Around 50,000 people in Southern California have been told to leave their homes because of a dangerous chemical tank in Garden Grove and nearby cities. The evacuation order was given late on Sunday. The governor has declared a state of emergency and sent more support to help local firefighters and emergency teams.

The emergency began when a large storage tank with the chemical methyl methacrylate became very hot. This chemical is very flammable and is used to make plastics. Experts say if the temperature keeps rising, there is a risk of a large explosion or a gas release.

Firefighters have been cooling the tank with water, and special teams are checking the situation using technology. Authorities have closed roads and opened emergency shelters for families. The evacuation will continue until it is safe to return and the chemical danger is reduced.