science

California fire officials successfully eliminated the threat of a catastrophic BLEVE explosion from a cracked chemical tank containing thousands of gallons of methyl methacrylate at a Garden Grove aerospace facility. Through overnight operations involving water spraying and temperature management, crews reduced the tank's internal temperature and released built-up pressure, though approximately 16,000 residents remain evacuated under a reduced evacuation zone due to continued spillage risks. What initially threatened 50,000 residents and prompted a state of emergency has been significantly downgraded, though officials emphasize the situation requires ongoing mitigation work. Emergency teams are maintaining containment measures including dykes and dams to prevent potential chemical leakage from reaching storm drains or the ocean. # Key Takeaways

Nine skiers have been found dead following a catastrophic avalanche in California's Lake Tahoe backcountry near Castle Peak, marking the deadliest avalanche in modern California history. The group had been on a three-day guided backcountry skiing expedition when a football-field-sized avalanche carrying eight feet of snow and 90-mph winds struck them on Tuesday. Harsh weather conditions, including whiteout visibility and continued avalanche danger, delayed rescue operations for several days until helicopters could safely assist on Friday. The victims included six close friends, two sisters, and three professional guides from Blackbird Mountain, while two members of the 15-person group survived the disaster. # Key Takeaways