The Town of Rumford has confirmed that due to a malfunction at the Mill there was a release of spent black liquor which resulted in precipitation of brown or tan colored snow.
From the Town of Rumford:
This is mostly in the areas of Town nearest to the Mill especially Falmouth Steet, Cumberland Street and Waldo Street. The pH of this substance is 10 which is alkali and therefore a skin irritant. Although it is non-toxic it should not be touched or otherwise put in contact with skin. Maine DEP has already been notified and are on their way to take a sample. We have been in contact with the Mill and they have already rectified the issue and have informed their regulators. In the meantime we are also notifying the school district to let kids know not to play with “brown snow”. It is likely advisable to keep your pets away from this snow. We are hopeful the rain tomorrow will wash most of the substance away and flush it off the ground and people’s homes or property.
For any questions or concerns please call the Town Manager’s office at (207) 364-4576 press 1 and then 1 again.
The Town of Rumford is warning residents to stay away from "brown snow."
The town says a malfunction at the mill released spent black liquor, causing tan or brownish snow. https://t.co/ujNEofT0Rd
— CBS 13 News (@WGME) December 10, 2024
A malfunction at the Rumford Mill resulted in "spent black liquor" spewing into the air which created precipitation of brown-colored snow. They are calling it a "non-toxic skin irritant", and are urging people to prevent their kids or pets from playing in the discolored snow. pic.twitter.com/bI3df9zl6N
— WGME Photojournalist 🎥📡 (@MENewsPhotog) December 10, 2024
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