A hazardous materials fire that broke out Friday night at Port Tampa Bay caused 969 pounds of sulfur dioxide gas to be released into the atmosphere, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Environmental officials say the fire was caused by maintenance activities within a sulfur storage tank operated by Gulf Sulphur Services. The first gas release happened between 5:40 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday before the fire reignited from midnight to 8 a.m. Saturday.
Sulfur dioxide is a nonflammable, colorless gas with a very strong, pungent odor, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can cause respiratory irritation, sneezing and coughing, especially in those with asthma and lung disease.
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Although sulfur dioxide does not burn in air, cylinders of compressed liquid can explode in the heat of a fire," the CDC writes.
Those living in and around Harbour Island received emergency shelter-in-place alerts Friday night due to the hazardous materials fire.
"Remain indoors, close all windows and doors, and stay inside until further notice," an emergency alert sent around 7:45 p.m. read.
People received...