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March 25,2022

Anna Murray 

A massive chlorine gas leak occurred in a swimming pool at the London Aquatic Center in the United Kingdom. 

According to the London Fire Brigade, nearly 200 swimmers and staff members were evacuated after a massive amount of chlorine gas leaked, causing a chemical reaction. According to officials, approximately 50 people were hospitalized for treatment due to breathing difficulties.

People experiencing breathing difficulties were transported to nearby hospitals. The Homerton Hospital in East London confirmed that 13 adults and five children had respiratory issues. Two people stayed overnight as a precautionary measure. According to a spokesperson for the Barts Health NHS Trust, Newham Hospital and the Royal London Hospital also treated patients who were evacuated from the accident caused by the gas leaking at London Aquatic Center.

Chlorine is a chemical element that is used to kill bacteria in swimming pools. It is poisonous when in the form of a gas. The center was temporarily closed to ensure the safety of nearby residents. 

Thousands of homes are affected in the affected area. Residents were instructed to close their doors and windows. Usman Hussain expressed concern about the accident because he lived nearby with his baby. While jogging around the scene, another bystander noticed the strong odor of chlorine. 

The Fire Department used ventilation fans to disperse the odor of chlorine gas into the air. The center will be able to reopen once detection machines show a lower level of chlorine.