Explosion at McKinley Climatic Lab

July 5, 2017

Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. – An explosion occurred at the McKinley Climatic Lab shortly before 10:00 a.m. Wednesday morning. According to base officials a 1,000 foot cordon was established and the surrounding area was evacuated. The smoke that was visible did not pose a health hazard to the general public.

Although base officials did at one point issue a release stating the smoke had been identified as Methylene Chloride and to avoid contact with the smoke if possible, they later advised that it was not and they issued the statement to err on the side of caution. They further advised that the incident had occurred within close proximity of the chemical.

Shortly after noon base officials advised the smoke had dissipated and the shelter that was in place had been lifted and HVAC systems could now be turned back on.

Upon further investigation it was determined that the fire had occurred at a support building near McKinley Climatic lab and not the Lab itself. Base officials further advised that there were no significant injuries and the incident was still under investigation.