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Why is the snow brown in Maine? This is the reason why officials warn against touching it
Residents in parts of Rumford, Maine saw brown snow falling in the area earlier this week. Authorities are warning people not to touch or ingest it.
Snow continues to fall in various parts of the United States, but some Maine residents were surprised by snow that fell in their part of town because it was a color other than the characteristic white.
Earlier this week, people in parts of Rumford, Maine noticed brown snow falling from the sky. Many were left wondering what caused the phenomenon.
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Why is the snow brown in Maine? This is the reason why officials warn against touching it
The Rumford town government explained on social media why brown snow fell in Maine.
“Due to a malfunction at the [paper] mill there was a release of spent black liquor which resulted in precipitation of brown or tan-colored snow,” the post said.
“This is mostly in the areas of Town nearest to the Mill especially Falmouth Steet, Cumberland Street and Waldo Street.”
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has tested the brown snow and the pH came back at 10 (water has a pH of 7). Government officials say since this level is alkali, it can be a skin irritant.
“We are confident that the public safety concerns are minimal at this time. In the meantime out of an abundance of caution please avoid ingesting or direct skin contact with the brown snow,” the town government added.
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The local government said people with questions or concerns can call the city manager’s office at (207) 364-4576, press 1, then 1 again. Officials also said they expect the black liquor residue to be washed or removed from the ground by heavy rains.
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