Inspectors from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality leaving the Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions plant, which is located at 6746 Up River Road in an industrial area of the city.
Water-quality tests show that two chemicals might have been released into the Corpus Christi water system, according to a news release from the area’s legislative delegation. The quantity could not be determined from the initial tests.
Along with Indulin AA-86, hydrochloric acid also might have been leaked into the system from either the failure of a back-flow protector or lack of one. A back-flow protector looks much like a large robotic elbow that keeps such leaks from happening.
Hydrochloric acid is corrosive to eyes, skin and mucous membrane. Short-term inhalation exposure can also cause eye, nose and respiratory tract irritation.
The chemicals came from a facility in the industrial district, which one TV station has named. According to a city council member, who was not named by the reporter, the facility is Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions, Inc. at 6746 Up River Road in Corpus Christi. The industrial district is located north of U.S. 37 between Southern Minerals Road and Nueces Bay Boulevard.
“The back flow incident reported last night involving contamination of the Corpus Christi water supply system is of critical concern to us and our top priority at this time,” reads the release from local legislators, which was signed by Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (D-Corpus Christi), State Rep. Abel Herrero (D-Robstown) and State Rep. Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi). “It is imperative that our families have water that is clean and safe to drink.”
The release also states that the officials are working closely with the TCEQ, the Governor’s Office and the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
“Initial reports from TCEQ indicate that a back flow incident from an industrial chemical tank occurred that may have released Indulin and hydrochloric acid into the Corpus Christi public water system, the release continues. “This is based on initial reports and the quantity of chemicals have not been determined at this time.”
Meanwhile, the city sent out answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Q. What if I showered?
A. You could experience possible skin irritation and burning sensation in the eyes.
Q. What chemicals may have come in contact with my water supply?
A. The chemical involved is Indulin AA-86, an asphalt emusifier.
Q. Can we boil water?
A. Do not try to treat the water yourself. Boiling, freezing, filtering, adding chlorine or other disinfectants or letting the water stand will not make the water safe.
Q. In what area of the city did the incident take place?
A. In the industrial district, north of Interstate 37 between Southern Minerals Road and Port Avenue.
Q. Has the water been tested and what are the results?A. Tests were taken Wednesday, Dec. 14, and results are expected later today.Q. When did the problem start?
A. Wednesday, Dec. 14, with a dirty water call.
Q. Who is responsible for fixing the problem?
A. A third party introduced the chemical. A full investigation is underway.
Q. Will the city provide water?
A. The city is working with emergency planners to determine options for water distribution.
