FREEPORT, Texas (AP) – A chlorine leak at a chemical plant in Freeport, Texas, prompted local officials to issue a shelter-in-place order for residents in two nearby cities on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. at a facility owned by Olin Corp., which is situated approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of Houston.

According to Brazosport CAER, an organization dedicated to facilitating communication between the community and local petrochemical industries, the leak of chlorine gas was identified shortly after it occurred. Emergency response teams acted swiftly to contain the leak, which was reported to have been stopped by 9:45 a.m.

Officials quickly issued a request for residents in Clute and Lake Jackson to shelter in place as a precautionary measure to ensure their safety. The shelter-in-place order was lifted around 10:40 a.m. after authorities assessed the situation and determined it was safe for residents to resume normal activities.

As of the time of the report, it was unclear if there were any injuries related to the leak. The Lake Jackson Police Department confirmed via social media that the situation had been contained and an all-clear signal was issued following the emergency response efforts.

In a statement released by Olin Corp., based in Clayton, Missouri, the company confirmed that all employees at the facility had been accounted for. They noted that individuals who may have been exposed to the chlorine gas are undergoing medical evaluations to ensure their well-being. The statement emphasized Olin's commitment to safety, stating, "The safety of our employees, the community, and our environment is always our top priority."

Olin Corp. is a manufacturer of various chemical products, including chlorine, industrial bleach, and hydrochloric acid. These products are essential in the production of plastics, paper products, and detergents among other is industries. The company expressed appreciation for the rapid response and support from both site and local emergency response teams during the incident.

Although the incident caused a temporary alarm for the nearby communities, the prompt containment of the leak and communication from authorities helped mitigate potential risks. Olin's ongoing investigation into the cause of the leak reflects the company's efforts to maintain safety standards and prevent future occurrences in this heavily industrialized area.