Authorities in Clackamas County ordered people in a Canby neighborhood to evacuate overnight after a “hazardous materials emergency,” and said people should cover their noses and mouths and roll up their car windows as they left to avoid inhaling gases and fumes.
The notice went out shortly after 5 p.m. to people near 301 South Redwood St. in Canby.
The Canby Police Department said evacuation orders in the 600-foot radius will remain in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday so investigators and first responders can continue to respond to what it called an “explosion site.” A shelter was set up at Baker Prairie Middle School.
Anyone outside who cannot leave should try to get at least half a mile away from the area, preferably to a spot that is uphill and upwind, county officials said.
Related: Click here for a map of the evacuation zone
People stuck in their homes or cars were urged to shut off their air conditioning and heaters to avoid drawing in any fumes.
People were told to take only essential items and pets as they evacuated.
Kittyhawk Inc., a company that supplies defense and aerospace manufacturers, is located at the address where Clackamas County officials are responding.
According to its website, the company uses “high heat and pressure in an inert gas environment” in its metal manufacturing work. It specializes in a process known as hot isostatic pressing, a manufacturing technique that reduces the presence of tiny holes or gaps in metals and ceramics to make them stronger.
The company handles refrigerated liquid argon, according to a permit with the state fire marshal. Argon is non-toxic and non-flammable, but is heavier than air and can pose an asphyxiation risk in confined or low-lying areas.
In 2021, an employee of its California location died after being exposed to argon in an enclosed space, according to an investigation by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Kittyhawk was fined and cited.
Officials with Kittyhawk declined to speak with OPB when reached by phone.
Last year, the company invested in its Canby location and added new staff for a full second shift, according to a “year in review” summary it posted online. It has been heavily focused on commercial aerospace and space industry work, the summary said, but it did not disclose its clients.
Kittyhawk is surrounded by industrial buildings, but is only a short distance from retail outlets and a residential neighborhood. Pacific Highway, also known as Highway 99 E, is about half a mile away.
Canby is about 25 miles southeast of Portland.
The “Level 3 - Go Now” evacuation notice was issued after reports of a possible gas explosion on Southeast Third Avenue came in Tuesday afternoon.
Canby police say drivers should expect road closures at Southeast Third Avenue and Redwood as emergency officials respond to the scene.
Authorities are asking people to avoid the area as crews work to investigate and respond.
