Hazy Skies and Chlorine Odor Linger in Southeastern Atlanta After BioLab Fire Cleanup Continues
Hazy skies and a chlorine odor have lingered in parts of southeastern metro Atlanta following a fire at the BioLab chemical plant in Rockdale County on Sunday, which has since been extinguished but continues to produce smoke due to chemical reactions. Approximately 17,000 residents in Conyers were evacuated, and a shelter-in-place order was issued for the county, although both have now been lifted with ongoing recommendations for residents to stay indoors if experiencing symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency reported that chemicals released include chlorine and bromine, with air quality tests indicating that levels are unlikely to pose harm to most people, though those with preexisting health conditions should exercise caution.