On Sunday and well into Monday morning, the massive plume was visible from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport — about 30 miles away.
Authorities have not given word yet on what other chemical compounds could potentially be present in the smoke now emanating from the scene, or what effect the toxins could have on other areas downwind from Rockdale County.
The shelter-in-place order remains in effect for all of Rockdale County, which has a population of just over 90,000, according to the 2020 census. It is not clear when that order will lift.
“In the best interest and safety of the public and all citizens, it is recommended that businesses close operations until shelter-in-place is lifted,” county officials said Monday. ” For everyone sheltering in place, the best practice is to turn the air conditioning off and keep windows and doors shut.”
So far, air quality tests have been within “acceptable levels,” the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department said Monday afternoon.
Officials in Fulton and Gwinnett counties also reported hazy skies and a strong chemical odor Monday.
