Approximately 40,000 residents in Orange County, California, were ordered to evacuate Friday due to concerns that a large chemical tank may explode, according to local officials.

The evacuation order centers around a 34,000-gallon chemical tank located at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove. Officials described the tank as being in active crisis, creating an immediate threat to surrounding communities.

Authorities warned that the tank containing toxic chemicals could either spill thousands of gallons of hazardous material or potentially explode. The nature of the specific chemicals involved was not immediately detailed in official statements.

The evacuation affects a significant portion of Orange County residents as officials work to address the crisis at the aerospace facility. Emergency response teams are actively monitoring the situation.

GKN Aerospace operates manufacturing facilities that serve the aviation and space industries. The company has not yet issued public statements regarding the incident at their Garden Grove location.