The Nation - News from April 6, 1987

Tests of residue around a still-smoldering chemical warehouse in Minot, N.D., showed signs of toxic contamination, but most of the estimated 10,000 people who fled the fire’s fumes had returned to their homes, officials said. A few hot spots gave off small amounts of vapor as authorities prepared to clean up after the Saturday fire at the Westchem Agricultural Chemicals Inc. warehouse, which sent black, pungent smoke over the city Saturday, injuring 37 people, police said. Officials warned residents to wash exposed eating utensils and clothing and avoid the fire residue.