The Basque Government has issued a warning to approximately 8,000 residents in Muskiz, urging them to stay indoors, keep their doors and windows closed, and refrain from outdoor activities due to a significant benzene leak from the Petronor refinery. This precautionary measure follows the detection of elevated levels of benzene emissions, which are a byproduct of the hydrocarbons used in fuel manufacturing. The emergency response includes using air conditioning units in recirculation mode to limit exposure to the hazardous air quality.

The incident occurred early in the morning between 10:15 AM and 11:00 AM, when a leak from one of the refinery's tanks was reported. Subsequent testing confirmed benzene concentrations in populated areas within Muskiz, ranging from 80 to 132 μg/m3, with trends indicating an upward spike in these values. The government has acted swiftly to address public safety concerns, advising residents to adhere strictly to the protective measures announced.

This situation highlights the risks associated with industrial operations and the importance of effective emergency response strategies in safeguarding local communities. With the continuing assessment of air quality by health officials and the timely dissemination of safety directives, the local government aims to mitigate health risks while investigating the leak's cause and taking necessary steps to prevent future occurrences.