An apparent lightning strike that hit the Rumford paper mill Friday afternoon caused a gas leak that emitted a plume of green smoke from the facility. Maine Department of Environmental Protection has since identified the chemical as chlorine dioxide.
Rumford fire chief Chris Reed says the chemical built up when the mill lost power following the lightning strike and was suddenly released by the vent fans after power returned. He says no one was injured and the site is being heavily monitored for any damage or safety hazards.
According to CBS 13, the issue was resolved within two hours and there is no risk of public safety.