Ammonia Leak Prompts Evacuation at Houston’s Memorial City Mall

A section of Houston was briefly on alert Monday after an ammonia leak inside Memorial City Mall prompted a rapid response from the Houston Fire Department (HFD). The incident led to shoppers and employees evacuating part of the popular retail center as crews worked to secure the scene.

HFD officials reported that the leak was traced to the mall’s ice rink area, where ammonia is commonly used as part of commercial cooling systems. Firefighters with the department’s hazardous materials unit moved quickly to stop the release and ventilate the affected area. No injuries were reported, and authorities stated the situation was contained without further risk to the public.

Emergency personnel temporarily restricted access to parts of the mall while evaluating the air quality and determining when it was safe for visitors to return. The quick response minimized disruptions, though the event drew significant attention due to the mall’s high foot traffic during peak afternoon hours.

Why It Matters

Memorial City Mall is one of Houston’s busiest retail destinations. Safety incidents at major commercial locations raise concerns for shoppers, employees, and nearby residents. Ammonia leaks, while uncommon, can pose respiratory hazards and must be addressed immediately.

What’s Next

HFD has not yet released detailed findings on what caused the leak. Mall management is expected to conduct its own assessment of the cooling equipment involved. Officials have reassured the public that the area is safe, and all mall operations have returned to normal.

This article is a summary of reporting by ABC13 Houston. Read the full story here.