A major security operation has been launched at the Pentagon after internal air quality monitoring systems detected a potential problem that could be related to the presence of hazardous materials in the air.
As a precautionary measure, several floors and corridors within the building have been completely closed, while other parts have been immediately evacuated to ensure the safety of personnel.
A “shelter-in-place” order has also been issued in the affected areas, which means that people must stay indoors and not move until new instructions are given, writes CNN .
Pentagon officials have said that these measures were taken only for safety reasons, while the exact cause of the alarm has not yet been determined. At the moment it is not known whether it is a chemical leak, gas or other hazardous substance.
Hazardous materials teams from both the Pentagon and the Arlington County Fire Department were immediately dispatched to the scene. They are working to identify the source of the alarm and secure the area.
Authorities have confirmed that there have been no reports of injuries so far, and no specific hazardous substance has been identified. Investigations and technical checks are continuing, while the situation remains under close monitoring. /Telegrafi/