Strange Smell in Atlanta Air Traced Back to Industrial Plant Fire
If you live in or around the Atlanta metropolitan area, there’s a chance you’ve noticed a strange smell in the air.
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Industrial Plant Fire Resulting in Distinct Odor
Well, according to public health officials, the unfamiliar odor is the result of an industrial plant fire that erupted over the weekend, causing a massive plume of dark smoke containing chlorine to enter the atmosphere. Tens of thousands of Georgia residents are now being warned to stay indoors with their windows closed as harmful chemicals continue to linger in the air.
Evacuation Orders and Shelter-in-Place Advisory
CNN reported Monday that approximately 17,000 people were ordered to evacuate the area where a fire broke out at the BioLab plant in Conyers on Sunday morning. Currently, a shelter-in-place advisory is still in effect for around 90,000 people in the surrounding area of Rockdale County.
Chemical Reactions and Air Quality Concerns
The plume from the chemical reaction that followed the outbreak of the fire could be seen for miles. Officials are cautioning those in the area to stay indoors with their windows closed and air conditioners off. BioLab, the manufacturer of pool and spa treatment products, is at the center of the incident.
Air quality surveys have identified the harmful irritant chlorine coming from the facility, causing concerns among county officials. Exposure to chlorine can result in various health issues such as burning of the eyes, nose, and mouth, coughing, choking, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness.
Impact and Response to the Emergency
While the facility remains closed and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to monitor air quality for chlorine levels, Georgia officials have declared a local area emergency. Residents in neighboring counties have also reported the smell of bleach and other chemicals in the air, as well as a visible haze.
Residents shared their experiences, with one saying, “I used to work at a water park, and it felt like walking into a pool house,” describing the foggy air in the affected area.
Fire Origin and Control Efforts
The fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers occurred when a sprinkler head malfunctioned around 5 a.m. on Sunday. This malfunction led to water mixing with a water-reactive chemical, generating a plume of chemicals. While there were employees inside the plant, no injuries have been reported.
The fire was brought under control around 4 p.m. on Sunday. BioLab, known for its swimming pool and spa water care products, is a division of KIK Consumer Products based in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Government Response and Safety Measures
According to a spokesperson for Gov. Brian Kemp’s office, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency have responded to the incident, with ongoing monitoring by state and federal partners. Efforts are focused on the incident alongside storm recovery operations.
Georgia residents are urged to prioritize safety and stay indoors until the air quality improves and is deemed safe for breathing again.
FAQs
Q: How did the industrial plant fire in Atlanta impact the surrounding areas?
A: The industrial plant fire led to a distinct odor in the air, causing concerns about air quality and the presence of harmful chemicals.
Q: What safety measures were advised to Georgia residents following the incident?
A: Residents were warned to stay indoors with windows closed and air conditioners off to prevent exposure to the lingering harmful chemicals.
Q: What caused the fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers?
A: The fire originated from a sprinkler head malfunction that resulted in a chemical reaction within the plant.
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