ENVIRONMENT

Greenwood, Indiana evacuates businesses after chemical leak

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Authorities in Greenwood, Indiana ordered the evacuation of nearby businesses on Monday morning, July 13, 2026, after a chemical storage drum ruptured at the Safety-Kleen waste management facility on Park 800 Industrial Drive. Employees reported that a drum containing dimethyl carbonate, a widely used industrial solvent, began to swell before it burst, sending the flammable liquid into an underground containment system. Although dimethyl carbonate is not highly toxic in open-air exposure, it has a low flash point of about 64°F, and temperatures in the 80s increased the risk of ignition. The Greenwood Fire Department led a multi-agency response and coordinated with Duke Energy to cut power to the facility and nearby buildings.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Monday morning, Jul 13, 2026 drum of dimethyl carbonate swelling observed
Shortly after, Jul 13, 2026 storage drum ruptures, chemical enters containment
Jul 13, 2026 Safety-Kleen team initiates internal spill response
Jul 13, 2026 company contacts Greenwood Fire Department assistance
Later Jul 13, 2026 mandatory evacuation ordered for nearby businesses
Later Jul 13, 2026 emergency crews identify elevated flash fire risk
Later Jul 13, 2026 responders coordinate power shutdown with Duke Energy
Later Jul 13, 2026 regional hazmat resources support Greenwood operations

Why This Matters to You

This chemical leak in Greenwood could disrupt your day if you work or live nearby. The evacuation order might affect local traffic and business operations. Check with your employer or local news for updates. Remember, dimethyl carbonate is flammable, so avoid the area to stay safe.

The Bottom Line

A ruptured drum at a waste management facility led to a chemical leak and evacuation. Emergency crews are working hard to manage the situation. If you know someone in Greenwood, it's worth forwarding this to keep them informed.