Residents of Rumford, Maine, were startled Tuesday when brown snow blanketed the town, caused by a malfunction at the ND Paper Mill. The mill accidentally released black liquor, a byproduct of paper production, into the air, discoloring the snowfall and raising health concerns.
Town officials assured the snow is non-toxic but warned it may cause skin irritation due to its high pH level. Residents are advised to avoid contact and keep children and pets away. The mill will fund third-party testing, while the Maine Department of Environmental Protection conducts its own analysis.
Though the malfunction is fixed, concerns remain about runoff affecting the Androscoggin River. Town officials hope upcoming rain will clear the snow but urge continued caution.
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