Explosion on the American Trail at the National Zoo, no injuries reported
WASHINGTON (ABC7) -- An explosion occurred on the American Trail at the Smithsonian's National Zoo Thursday morning, zoo officials confirmed.
The D.C. Fire Department responded to the scene at approximately 11:15 a.m. for reports of the explosion, which ABC7 learned was chemical-related.
A zoo worker was doing routine work in the mechanical room on the American Trail, when they suddenly smelled chlorine and exited the room. Shortly after exiting, the employee heard a "bang," according to the zoo.
Chlorine is used in the filtration process for the aquatic animals, zoo officials said.
No animals, visitors or staff were injured in the incident, according to the zoo. At approximately 2:30 p.m. the zoo announced all animals had been accounted for and were doing well.
The site of the explosion was cleared for investigation.
One eastbound lane and one westbound lane in the 3000 block of Connecticut Avenue were temporarily blocked.
