Chemical emergencies reported in Argentina and Chile

Separate chemical emergencies have been reported in Argentina and Chile.

In Neuquén, Argentina, a chemical reaction involving a bottle in a boys' bathroom at EPET N°5 forced a school evacuation on Monday night. The reaction released a whitish gas, causing students to experience dizziness, throat itching, and eye irritation. Two students were taken to the hospital for medical checks. Authorities believe the reaction may have involved water and alcohol, and they are investigating whether the substances were brought into the school from outside. Classes were suspended to allow for disinfection.

In Independencia, Chile, a chemical emergency involving cyanide at a residence resulted in one death. Firefighters from the Hazmat unit responded to the scene, and personnel are undergoing decontamination protocols. Local authorities have suspended traffic at the intersection of Escanilla and San Luis while the Prosecutor's Office investigates the circumstances surrounding the cyanide presence and the fatality.