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PHOTOS: Residents submit photos of 'smoke' after BioLab fire in Conyers

By FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team
Published  September 30, 2024 10:10am EDT
Rockdale County
FOX 5 Atlanta
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Courtesy of Jana Demos in Loganville

A chemical fire at BioLab in Conyers early Sunday morning sent a massive plume of smoke into the area that could still be seen on Monday morning. Approximately 17,000 people were evacuated from the area and thousands more were told to shelter in place. The smoke has started to invade nearby areas and residents are posting photos on social media and sending them to FOX 5 Atlanta.

RELATED: What we know about the chlorine plume, list of closures

If you would like to submit your photo for this gallery, please send to newstipsatlanta@fox.com. Please be aware that officials are advising residents to evacuate if they are in the evacuation zone or shelter in place if needed. Do NOT take chances with your health simply for a photo or video.

OTHER STORIES

Statement from DeKalb County

DeKalb Emergency Management Agency says it is aware of numerous reports of air quality concerns in the county following the chemical fire in Conyers, but there are no current advisories from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division for DeKalb County concerning air quality. DEMA and DeKalb County Fire Rescue are testing air quality throughout the day around the county and will issue advisories should they become necessary. Residents are advised to call 311 to report any air quality concerns. 

Statement from Barrow County Fire Department

The Barrow County Fire Department posted the following on social media:

Residents in and around Barrow County have reported noticeable haze in the area. The Barrow County Fire Department would like to assure the community that this haze is not the result of any fires or activities at Cowart Mulch.

The Fire Department is actively monitoring air quality and working with local and state agencies to determine the source of the haze. At this time, there are no immediate health risks, but residents are encouraged to stay informed and limit outdoor activities if they have respiratory conditions.

We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

Gwinnett County government

Gwinnett County Government sent the following:

We’ve received calls from residents in parts of the county reporting haze and a chemical smell believed to be related to the BioLab chemical plant fire in Rockdale County. A low-pressure system has pushed fog into the area, and a lack of wind is causing the smell to linger. The smell should dissipate in a couple of hours as the wind direction shifts.

Our Emergency Management Agency is closely monitoring the situation, and we are awaiting guidance from the EPA as to any hazards that may be present in this smoke. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.Gwinnett County Government

At this time, we are awaiting guidance from the EPA as to any hazards that may be present in this smoke. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Walton County government

Walton County posted the following on social media:

The fire at Biolab Chemical Plant in Rockdale County is approximately 90% out.  Walton Fire crews helping in Rockdale County have been released from duty. Winds have shifted to S/SE so any smoke is headed South toward Henry County and away from Walton County. We will continue to monitor and provide information we obtain from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and Georgia Environmental Protection Division.

Walton County EMA is aware of what is happening in our neighboring county of Rockdale. We are monitoring the situation and would advise that if you smell a chlorine odor you should turn off your air conditioners, turn on your ceiling fans, and if possible bring your outside animals indoors. If you experience any trouble breathing or any other medical emergency call 911. As for now, sheltering in place is the best option.