Topic: Arkema

A chemical plant explosion in Houston involving unstable peroxides is discussed. Conflicting messages from local officials and FEMA regarding the toxicity of the smoke are highlighted. Additionally, rumors of cloud seeding in Reeves, Texas, prior to Hurricane Harvey are dismissed as geographically improbable.

The Arkema Inc. chemical plant in Crosby, Texas, faced an imminent threat of fire and explosion after 40 inches of rain disabled primary and backup cooling systems. CEO Richard Rowe stated there was no way to prevent the volatile chemicals from igniting, leading to a mandatory 1.5-mile evacuation radius around the facility.