The Ammonia Gas Leak Potentially Posed Significantly Health Hazards

Earlier this year, a warehouse leak at the 99 Cents Only Store distribution center in Katy, TX, resulted in a shelter-in-place order from Harris County Public Health. Surrounding communities were reportedly exposed to Anhydrous Ammonia, a toxic chemical that can cause serious health conditions, including respiratory issues, blindness, and lung damage.

At the Mayday Law Office, we continue to investigate and accept claims related to the Houston-area gas leak that affected a large number of residents and workers in the area. Our attorneys are well-versed in handling even the most challenging cases and are unafraid to hold companies accountable for their wrongdoing. 

If you suffered harm after the recent Harris County chemical leak, contact our office at (281) 741-1162 to schedule a free consultation. 

What Caused the Harris County Chemical Leak?

While the cause of the recent Harris County chemical gas leak out of the 99 Cents Only Store distribution center in Katy, Texas is still under investigation, it is believed that it occurred during routine maintenance on an overhead refrigeration line. 

According to CBS News, the leak began at approximately 9:00 pm on February 11, 2023. Routing work was being performed on a warehouse refrigeration line suspended around 16 feet in the air when a release of a toxic gas occurred. 

What Kind of Gas Was Released in the Leak?

The gas was determined to be Anhydrous Ammonia. Ammonia is explosive and corrosive. There are several serious health problems associated with ammonia gas exposure. Exposure usually occurs when the substance is ingested or inhaled.

Signs and symptoms of ammonia gas poisoning:

• Burning of the eyes, nose, and throat 
• Respiratory tract issues
• Vision problems
• Damage to the lungs
• Coughing
• Irritation of the nose and throat
• Burns on the mouth and skin
• Damage to the throat or stomach if swallowed

In some cases, exposure to ammonia can prove fatal. The potential health problems associated with ammonia gas poisoning depend on how the exposure occurred, how much of the ammonia gas was ingested or inhaled, and the length of the exposure.

Who Was Affected by the Katy Warehouse Gas Leak?

As a result of the chemical leak, a shelter-in-place order was issued by Harris County Public Health. The order pertained to residents living within a 2 square mile area around the 99 Cents Only Store distribution center in Katy. 

The shelter-in-place order was issued for:

• Eastern boundary: Mason Road from Kingsland Boulevard North to Mason Creek.
• Northern boundary: Mason Creek between Highway 99 & N. Mason Road.
• Southern boundary: Kingsland Boulevard between Highway 99 and S. Mason Road.
• Western boundary: Highway 99 between Kingsland Boulevard and Mason Creek, along with small sections near the I-10 and 99 intersections. It did not include Memorial Herman Katy Hospital. 

If you live within a 2 square mile radius around the warehouse and have experienced adverse health conditions after the leak, you might be entitled to compensation. It is strongly recommended that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

Contact Our Office for a Free Consultation

If you were affected by the 99 Cents Only Store distribution center chemical leak, contact our office at (281) 741-1162 to schedule a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to get started.