Because 2023 Needed More Reasons to Wear Masks: Texas Chemical Leak Update

In a shocking turn of events — well, shocking for anyone who hasn't been paying attention to the state of the world — a chemical leak at an oil refinery in East Texas has left at least two people dead and nearly three dozen injured. Because apparently, breathing clean air is overrated.

The thrilling adventure began on Thursday at a PEMEX facility in Deer Park, just a stone's throw away from Houston. The refinery, which processes crude oil to create gasoline and other magical fuels that power our capitalist dreams, had a little oopsie with hydrogen sulfide. For those keeping track, that's a colorless gas with a strong odor — and by strong, we mean it smells like Satan's breakfast.

Local law enforcement got the memo around 5:30 p.m., and the good folks at Channel Industries Mutual Aid (CIMA) rushed to the scene. The cities of Deer Park and Pasadena issued a shelter-in-place order at 7 p.m., which was mercifully lifted at 9:30 p.m. because who wants to be cooped up with their family for too long, right?

Houston-area chemical leak claims 2 lives, dozens injured

In a riveting late-night update, the Harris County Sheriff's Office announced that two people had died, and 35 received medical treatment. The shelter-in-place order was lifted, so you can all go back to your regularly scheduled programming.

What caused the Deer Park chemical release?

Pemex Deer Park stated that a "gas release was reported at one of its operating units" at 4:40 p.m., according to ABC News. The cause of the leak is still a mystery, and the extent of the injuries is a secret that officials aren't ready to share. USA TODAY tried to get a hold of Pemex and Deer Park Mayor Jerry Mouton, but they're probably busy figuring out how to blame this on climate activists.

What is hydrogen sulfide?

Hydrogen sulfide is a super fun, highly toxic, and flammable gas. It smells like rotten eggs, according to the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Natural gas, sewage, and volcanic gases all contain this delightful substance. It's used in oil and gas refining, mining, tanning, and paper processing. Work in confined spaces with this stuff is a party because it's heavier than air.

Chemical leak remains under investigation

The sheriff's office is still investigating, because apparently, figuring out what caused a deadly chemical leak takes more than a day. On Thursday, officials lifted the shelter-in-place after getting air monitoring reports from Harris County Pollution Control, Harris County Fire Marshal's Office Hazardous Materials Response Team, and CTEH.

"We are aware of the odor but there is no hazard to the community," the City of Deer Park posted on social media. So, just hold your nose and think happy thoughts, folks.

Where was the Deer Park chemical leak?

The PEMEX facility with the chemical leak is located at 5900 Highway 225. You know, just in case you wanted to drop by and say hello.

— USA TODAY contributed to this report, because even in a crisis, we need to credit our corporate overlords.