A strong odor of unknown origin was traveling through Orange County Thursday night, officials said.
The fire departments in Huntington Beach and Costa Mesa both fielded reports concerning the chemical smell, and Huntington Beach officials said it had appeared in several other cities as well.
We have received many reports of a strong odor traveling through the city. The smell has traveled throughout many OC cities. We have made notifications to the proper authorities for follow up. At this time we do not know where the odor is originating from.
— Huntington Beach FD (@HBFD_PIO) August 17, 2018
“Fire crews responded to investigate and the source is unfounded,” the Costa Mesa Fire Department said in a tweet.
Several O.C. residents contacted KTLA to voice their concern. Brynne Palmer, who lives in Costa Mesa, said her eyes began to water when she stepped out to walk her dog.
The agency advised residents to close their windows and doors.
We have received several calls reporting an area chemical smell. Reports are that several cities are experiencing similar conditions. Fire crews responded to investigate and the source is unfounded. We recommend closing windows & doors.
— Costa Mesa FD (@CMFD_PIO) August 17, 2018
The smell could also be reported to the South Coast Air Quality Management District at 1-800-288-7664. Any abnormal medical symptoms should be reported to 911, firefighters said.
Regarding the chemical smell, you could also report to AQMD at 1-800-288-7664. If you begin to experience any abnormal symptoms, please call 911 to report a medical emergency.
— Huntington Beach FD (@HBFD_PIO) August 17, 2018
KTLA’s Anna Albaryan contributed to this report.
