An orange toxic cloud was spotted over Spain following an explosion at a chemical plant, Reuters said.
Photos of the cloud were uploaded on social media websites. The blast at the chemical plant took place in Igualada, near Barcelona, according to the report.
So how was the cloud formed?
Preliminary reports say it was caused by two chemicals accidentally mixing together, and it is said to be composed primarily of nitric acid.
Nitric acid vapor can cause health problems if it is inhaled, swallowed, or if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. Generally, it just irritates the eyes but higher doses can cause chemical burns.
About 65,000 residents were advised to stay indoors while the cloud dissipates.
Two people were injured in the chemical plant blast.
“Unfortunately, there’s not much wind in the area and the toxic cloud is taking longer to disperse,” Catalan Interior Ministry’s Ramon Espadelar was quoted by El Pais as saying.
TOXIC CLOUD: Igualada town hall tells The Spain Report the big orange cloud in the photo is now more of “a fine mist” pic.twitter.com/81nfq8VETE
— The Spain Report (@thespainreport) February 12, 2015
Orange sky in #Catalonia: Chemical explosion engulfed north east #Spain towns with toxic cloud http://t.co/RQNUxRfKmZ pic.twitter.com/geXhSsiGHu
— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) February 12, 2015
“@SkyNews: Toxic orange cloud billows over Spain after Courteeners play surprise gig there http://t.co/xBkZfmYKnQ pic.twitter.com/Ogvqk2CnCw“
— LH (@louisheidensohn) February 12, 2015
omg: Terrifying Orange Cloud Appears Near Barcelona After Chemical Explosion http://t.co/qHyUDcfcvZ pic.twitter.com/sieM3fuHHu
— Krystie Lee Yandoli (@KrystieLYandoli) February 12, 2015
