Texas officials recently lifted the mandatory evacuation order following a Texas chemical plant explosion, but authorities warn of exposure to asbestos.

Early on Nov. 27, a chemical plant exploded in Port Neches Texas, a small town outside of Houston. Smaller explosions reportedly followed throughout the day with a larger explosion in the afternoon.

In light of the explosions and the potential for more, a mandatory evacuation was issued for the tens of thousands of Texans living within a four mile radius of the TPC Group chemical plant.

Luckily, injuries seem to be minimal. Eight people injured in the blasts, including three TPC workers, have reportedly been treated and released.

Although the fires were not completely extinguished, the evacuation order was lifted by Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick on Nov. 29. The fires were reportedly contained to the point that nearby residents were not at risk.

“TPC is going to continue their efforts to put the remaining fires out,” Branick said.

Unfortunately, nearby Texans may not return to whole homes. The explosions reportedly damaged houses in the area – resulting in shattered windows and destroyed roofs.

Risk of Exposure to Asbestos Remains

The explosion reportedly posed additional risks including exposure to asbestos. Part of the facility was reportedly completed in the 1940s and therefore had pipe coverings made with asbestos. Branick said that residents should be on the lookout for asbestos pieces since the explosions “could have blown that asbestos debris over the neighborhoods and into some yards.”

Any substance that is white and chalky could be asbestos. Residents have been directed to contact TPC if they come across potential asbestos debris and to not touch the pieces.

Asbestos Hazards

When movement disturbs asbestos containing products, or with accidents like the Texas chemical plant exposure, microscopic asbestos fibers are released into the air. When asbestos fibers are dispersed, they can  be inhaled or swallowed.

It is thought that these fibers then stay in the body and cause scarring and inflammation. Long term, this can reportedly lead to health consequences.

One of the most serious consequences of asbestos exposure is the development of cancer. Asbestos is associated with various types of cancer including lung cancer and a rare form of cancer known as mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the mesothelium – the thin layer of tissue that is found around several internal organs. This deadly cancer can affect the pleura around the lungs, the peritoneum in the abdomen, the pericardium around the heart, and even the lining of the testicles.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. It can take between 20 and 60 years for mesothelioma to form after asbestos exposure, but the consequences can be dire.

Outcomes for mesothelioma are usually grim. The disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage where a cure simply isn’t possible. Instead, doctors may focus on making patients comfortable as they live with their terminal cancer.

Because of the serious consequences of mesothelioma, it is recommended that consumers be cautious and do their best to prevent any asbestos exposure.