Leaking 500-gallon propane tank spurred evacuation of Univ. of Kentucky buildings

Published 12:33 pm Friday, March 19, 2021

A leaking 500-gallon propane tank caused the evacuation of four buildings on the University of Kentucky campus Friday morning.

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports that the large propane tank fell off of a truck and began leaking. The leak was reported shortly before 10 a.m. and happened near the school’s Chemistry-Physics Building.

Liquid propane reportedly spilled onto the ground and because of a drain system in the area could have leaked into the area’s water system. If any propane had leaked into the water system, officials believe that it would be safely diluted.

The hazardous response team from the Lexington Fire Department was called to the scene as officials tried to get the tank capped.

The following four buildings were evacuated: Kastle Hall, Pence Hall, the Quadrangle and the Funkhouser Building.

No injuries have been reported and people have been allowed back into the buildings.