Sabine Pass benzene leak causes shelter-in-place warning

At about 4:30 p.m. Dec. 15, all Sabine Pass residents were advised to shelter in place due to a benzene leak in the area of Highway 87 and 82, according to a news release from Port Arthur Emergency Management. 

Highway 87 is shut down, according to the release, and a follow-up message will be sent once the all-clear signal is given. Until then, Sabine Pass residents are urged to shelter in place.

Benzene is a chemical that is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is highly flammable. Benzene evaporates into the air very quickly. Its vapor is heavier than air and may sink into low-lying areas.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who breathe in high levels of benzene may develop the following signs and symptoms within minutes to several hours: drowsiness, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, headaches, tremors, confusion, unconsciousness and, at very high levels, death.