MANAUS, BRAZIL – Following the start of a styrene leak at a factory in the Industrial District of southern Manaus, firefighters were still cooling storage tanks on Thursday morning (July 16). The operation is intended to prevent the chemical from overheating further and reduce the risk of additional vapor releases.

The incident began early Wednesday evening (July 15) in one of the styrene monomer storage tanks at chemical manufacturer Innova. According to the company, the product experienced an abnormal rise in temperature, triggering the release of vapor through the tank's built-in safety devices.

According to the Amazonas State Fire Department, the tank's safety system was activated to prevent an explosion. Because of the chemical hazard, emergency response protocols were implemented, and the area was cordoned off with support from the Amazonas Military Police.

The affected plant and neighboring companies were evacuated as a precaution. The intensity of the vapor alarmed workers at the facility and in nearby factories. Videos recorded by employees at the onset of the leak illustrate the severity of the incident.

The strong odor of the chemical was still noticeable across the area on Thursday morning. Workers arriving for their shifts were being sent home by some companies operating near the site.

The Manaus Free Trade Zone Authority (Suframa) said it is monitoring the situation. The agency also expressed solidarity with workers and others affected by the incident.

Styrene monomer is used in the production of plastics, rubber and other industrial materials. Derived from petroleum and natural gas, it is a liquid at room temperature but can evaporate rapidly when heated.

Amazon Agency