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EPA Joins Disaster Team in Del Rio

Release Date: 9/2/1998
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has joined other federal agencies helping Del Rio, Texas,  residents cope in the aftermath of flooding from Tropical Storm Charley.

     "All of us at EPA's Dallas office are concerned about our neighbors affected by this natural disaster. We are gratified that regional staff can provide experts to safely evaluate, remove and dispose hazardous materials displaced by this flooding," Regional Administrator Gregg Cooke said.

     EPA  responded immediately when the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) requested assistance.

     In addition to the usual hazardous materials encountered in flood debris, emergency response personnel were concerned about the potential for exposure to industrial chemicals from the 41  maquiladora factories across the border from Del Rio. Mexican officials assured EPA that none of the maquiladora sites were flooded and no debris has been found from these facilities.

     EPA's on-scene coordinator reports that no unexpected hazardous materials have been found in the flood debris. Materials found include drums of petroleum products such as lube oil and cleaning solvents and canisters of compressed gas.

     Flood debris is being sorted by hand to ensure that any hazardous materials are handled correctly. These materials are being stored in a secure area until they can be disposed according to hazardous waste regulations.

     As residents are allowed to return to their homes, officials expect additional hazardous materials will be found. These include materials often stored and used in homes such as pesticides, paints and cleaning products. Neighborhood hazardous materials collection sites may be set up to make it easier for residents to safely dispose of these types of products.

     Residents should be aware that damaged or leaking containers can increase the risk of handling hazardous materials. If unsure whether a particular item is hazardous, or to report the location of a suspected chemical hazard, citizens are urged to contact EPA at 1-800-887-6063.