Monitoring Advisories from the BioLab Fire in Rockdale County

On the morning of Sunday, September 29, 2024, a fire ignited at the BioLab plant in neighboring Rockdale County. Updates have been ongoing from Rockdale County EMA, FEMA, and GEMA/HS.

September 30, 2024

*Sign up for Newton County's CodeRED service at  https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/BF879E7AA795.

 

Tuesday, 10/1/24, at 10:50 AM: A statement from Newton EMA: "Overnight winds have shifted bringing heavy clouds and strong chemical odor into the County. Wind conditions can move the clouds and chemical odor into and out of any area throughout the day. EPD reports are still saying the air quality is deemed safe.

If you are in an area of high chemical odor or heavy smoke, we encourage you to take shelter in place precautions. Shelter in place precautions include:
• Stay inside and away from smoke
• Keep indoor air as clean as possible with windows and doors closed
• Do not run air conditioners
• Bring pets inside.
Due to how crucial the winds are in the movement of the smoke, the situation remains fluid and we appreciate your patience in this matter. Your safety remains our No. 1 priority and we will continue to work with our state and local partners in assessing the situation and providing information.
The EPA is using real-time air monitoring instruments to provide data from the field. That data can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/ga/conyers-ga-biolab-fire...
Individuals with questions or concerns regarding this event should contact the Georgia Poison Center 404-856-6252."
 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 2:37 PM: The Newton County Sheriff's Office shared FEMA's assessment of the situation in regards to Newton County: "According to FEMA, Newton County has not experienced significant impacts from the BioLab fire in Conyers, GA, and therefore a shelter-in-place order is not necessary at this time.

We have personnel stationed at the Emergency Command Center in Rockdale County, actively receiving crucial information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Environmental Protection Division (EPD), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Should conditions change, we will inform the public."

 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 1:40 PM: A public alert was distributed by GEMA/HS that stated, "Public Safety Alert from Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency "...on behalf of the Environmental Protection Division local area emergency due to ROCKDALE COUNTY BIOLAB FIRE. The EPA is MONITORING air quality for CHLORINE AND RELATED COMPOUNDS. Chemical levels are UNLIKELY TO CAUSE HARM TO MOST PEOPLE."

 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 11:41 AM: A message from Newton County's CodeRED service stated, "Newton County EMA: We are monitoring the recent BioLab incident in Rockdale, working closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of our community. BioLab fire has been reported extinguished. It may continue to smolder. We continue to work with officials as the plume models continue to adjust path. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, be aware of any unusual chemical odors in the area. We encourage you to stay indoors if possible. If you experience any symptoms as headaches, difficulty breathing, or other health concerns, please contact 9-1-1. Continue to follow instructions from local officials and Newton County."

 

Sunday, 9/29/24, at 7:15 PM: Newton County Schools closed school for Monday, September 30, 2024, out of an abundance of caution. 

 

Sunday, 9/29/24, at 4:15 PM: A message from Newton County's CodeRED service stated, "We are 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. This message from Newton County EMA”

Return to list.