Frequently Asked Questions

Hazardous Materials Incident

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 11 a.m.

General Information

What is the status of the hazardous materials?

The Orange Health Care Agency shared an update regarding ongoing cleanup activities and air monitoring related to the hazardous materials incident at GKN Aerospace.

Removal of neutralized MMA material from Tanks #2 and #4 (the “non-incident” tanks) progressed successfully and as planned this week. The material was disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal rules, with a small amount retained for future sampling.

The next phase of cleanup, including removal of any remaining neutralized MMA in Tanks #2 and #4 and cleaning of Tanks #2 and #4, will begin on July 6.

Air monitoring data continues to show no elevated readings, and all data is within typical levels. Updates are being posted at www.occupainfo.com.

Is the air safe to breathe?

Air monitoring continues at the facility perimeter and in the surrounding community to ensure public safety and guide response actions.

The Orange County Health Care Agency advised that cleanup activities at the facility may cause temporary odors with a fruity or plastic-like smell. It is confirmed that the intermittent odors are well below levels associated with health concerns.

An interactive map and data dashboard is now available on the www.occupainfo.com webpage enabling residents to view air monitoring data from the stationary and mobile air monitoring at the site.

Is the water safe?

Yes, at this time, the water system has not been contaminated and is safe for use.

On Friday, June 5, during routine work to empty an onsite stormwater/condensation tank in an area unrelated to the incident site, approximately 50 gallons overflowed into a storm drain. State and local notifications were made, and cleanup was conducted. The stormwater will be analyzed, though the potential for trace MMA is low. There is no public health concern at this time.

Is there any financial assistance available for impacted residents or businesses?

Update - June 24, 2026
The City is aware of the Orange County Board of Supervisor's approval of $500,000 for residents affected by the GKN Aerospace incident (Agenda Item 94I). More details regarding the application process and distribution of funds will be provided as they become available.

OC Community Resilience Fund
Orange County United Way has launched the OC Community Resilience Fund to provide direct assistance to residents and businesses affected by the recent chemical incident impacting Garden Grove, Stanton, Westminster, Cypress, Anaheim and Buena Park.

Update - July 1, 2026
Nearly 1,400 households have already received assistance as part of the OC Community Resilience Fund. Most applicants have been sent a secure link to upload documents. Please upload your documents as soon as possible to avoid delays.

United Way and 211 are reviewing submissions and sending payments as they are approved.

Have City services resumed in and around the evacuation area?

Yes. As of May 27, all City services in and around the evacuation area have resumed. This includes services such as water service, trash collection, utilities, mail delivery and street sweeping. Residents and businesses should also contact their utility providers directly if they are experiencing any individual issues with gas, electricity or other service connections.

Is City Hall open for regular business?

Yes. City Hall is open, and City employees continue to serve the community. Residents and businesses may continue contacting City departments for regular City services, in addition to using the emergency hotline for incident-related questions.

Business

What resources are available for businesses affected by the incident?

The City's website is being updated with the latest business support resources for businesses affected by the hazardous materials incident.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has opened a Business Recovery Center in Garden Grove to assist small businesses impacted by the recent evacuation related to the GKN chemical incident.

The Business Recovery Center provides personalized assistance to business owners and helps guide them through the disaster loan application process, connecting them with the right resources to support recovery.

Garden Grove Business Recovery Center

  • Location: 12966 Euclid Street, Suite 130, Garden Grove, CA 92840
  • Hours: Monday – Friday | 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Closed on Friday, June 19
  • Walk-ins are welcome but in-person appointments can be scheduled in advance at www.appointment.sba.gov. Applicants may call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information.

How will residents or businesses be reimbursed for evacuation-related costs?

Residents are encouraged to contact their homeowners or renters insurance companies. Businesses should contact their insurance providers regarding potential claims or coverage.