Chlorine Gas Release In Yonkers

There was a chlorine gas release at a reservoir in Yonkers that supplies water to New York City.

Hazardous materials crews responded to the Hillview Reservoir on Wednesday morning.  The release apparently happened in a building that is next to the reservoir.  Hillview Reservoir is next to the New York State Thruway in Southeast Yonkers.

It appears that none of the chemical actually ended up into the water supply.  Sources tell Fox 5 News that nearby residents were warned of a potential problem via Yonkers' reverse 911 warning system but were not ordered to evacuate.

Air outside the facility has been tested and reportedly does not pose a risk.

Small amounts of chlorine are added to drinking water to treat it.  It kills the bacteria, viruses and other micro-organisms in the water, so that it is safe to drink.

It is unclear how much chlorine gas was released next to the 100 year old reservoir.

The New York State Department of Health says chlorine is among the ten highest volume chemicals made in the United States. At room temperature, chlorine is a gas. It has a yellow-green color, and a pungent, irritating odor similar to bleach. Usually, it is pressurized and cooled for storage and shipment as an amber-colored liquid. Chlorine does not catch fire easily, but may combine with other common substances to form explosive compounds.

The most harmful route of exposure is from breathing chlorine gas. Exposure may also result from skin contact or eye contact with chlorine gas or by swallowing chlorine-contaminated food or water.

Chlorine gas is heavier than air and will initially remain in low-lying areas unless wind or other conditions provide air movement.