Neighboring metro Atlanta counties report hazy skies after Rockdale County chemical fire

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Many residents in metro Atlanta counties reported hazy skies and the smell of chemicals after a weekend chemical fire in Rockdale County.

As a result, counties including Gwinnett County, DeKalb County and the city of Atlanta tested the air quality. As of Monday afternoon, there were no advisories or immediate life safety issues in those areas.

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Gwinnett County resident Darcy told Atlanta News First she was still concerned for her health after experiencing the air outside her home.

“I was only out there for 30 seconds. It burned my eyes, It burned my nose, I got an instant headache and all of a sudden, I couldn’t breathe,” she said.

Officials said the haze and chemical smell pushed into nearby areas after the chemical fire on Sunday at a facility in Conyers.

In Atlanta, Ashley Neill, who lives in the Kirkwood community, had similar experiences as those in Gwinnett County.

“I was kind of concerned. Is this bad for us? And I was also really concerned for my son,” she said. “I knew he was going to be on the playground and we had no understanding of what the situation was.”

Officials said if there were concerns, to stay indoors, close windows and doors and turn off the A.C.

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