**Rumford, Maine -** Unexpected snowfall turned alarming for residents as brown and tan snow fell from the sky early this week. The unusual color was traced back to a malfunction at the local paper mill, which released a substance known as spent black liquor, a byproduct of paper production.
This incident primarily affected neighborhoods near the mill, particularly Falmouth Street, Cumberland Street, and Waldo Street. Town officials quickly assessed the situation, revealing that the substance had a high pH level of 10, categorizing it as alkali and a potential skin irritant. While the material is deemed non-toxic, officials strongly advised against touching it.
Rumford Town Manager George O’Keefe reported that samples from affected areas showed pH levels dropping to eight or less. Although not hazardous, the substance could still irritate skin, eyes, and pets’ paws.
In response, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection dispatched officials to collect samples for further analysis. The mill has since rectified the issue and communicated with regulatory bodies about the incident.
Town officials are working closely with schools to prevent children from playing in the discolored snow, and residents are urged to keep pets away. With predictions of heavy rain moving in, there’s hope that the rainfall will help cleanse the area, though concerns linger about runoff potentially reaching the Androscoggin River.
Snow Goes Brown: What You Need to Know About Rumford’s Unusual Snowfall Incident
**Overview of the Incident**
In Rumford, Maine, an unexpected weather phenomenon turned alarming for residents earlier this week as brown and tan snow descended from the skies. The cause was identified as a malfunction at the local paper mill, which released spent black liquor—a byproduct of the paper production process—into the atmosphere.
**What is Spent Black Liquor?**
Spent black liquor is a wastewater byproduct generated during the pulping of wood into paper. It contains various organic compounds and is typically treated before disposal. Although it is not classified as hazardous, it possesses a high pH level, which can lead to skin irritations and other minor health issues upon contact.
**Safety Measures and Health Implications**
Rumford’s Town Manager, George O’Keefe, reported that initial tests indicated a high pH level of 10 in the snow, categorizing it as alkali. However, follow-up assessments found that pH levels had dropped to eight or below, suggesting a diminishing risk. Residents are still advised to avoid contact with the snow, especially children and pets, as skin and eye irritation can occur even with lower pH levels.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) was quick to respond, dispatching teams to collect samples for further analysis. Their involvement highlights the seriousness with which local authorities treat environmental incidents.
**Local Impact and Community Response**
The affected neighborhoods include Falmouth Street, Cumberland Street, and Waldo Street, where officials are working with schools to prevent outdoor play in the contaminated areas. The community is urged to keep pets away from the discolored snow to avoid any potential exposure.
**Forecast and Mitigation Efforts**
Rain is forecasted to arrive shortly, with hopes that it will wash away the discolored snow and improve local conditions. However, concerns remain about the possibility of runoff contaminating the Androscoggin River, which could impact the local ecosystem and water quality.
**Preventive Actions for Residents**
Here are some recommended actions for residents during this incident:
– **Avoid contact**: Stay away from all brown and tan snow.
– **Keep pets indoors**: Ensure that pets do not come into contact with the affected snow.
– **Monitor local updates**: Stay informed through local news and government announcements regarding air and water quality.
– **Report issues**: If you notice unusual environmental changes, report them to local authorities.
**Conclusion and Future Precautions**
While the incident at the Rumford paper mill is being addressed, it serves as a reminder of the potential environmental hazards associated with industrial processes. Ongoing monitoring and preventive measures will be crucial in ensuring community safety and environmental sustainability in areas near paper mills and similar facilities.
For more information on local environmental policies and safety measures, visit the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
