KENNEWICK, Wash.-Nutrien Nitrogen has released a statement in response to an orange cloud emanating from its plant that could be seen floating across the Tri-Cities skyline on the morning of September 27.
The orange cloud was initially seen in east Kennewick and near Finley around 7:15 a.m. before drifting over the area and eventually toward Burbank.
NonStop Local received several reports about the cloud and it was initially explained as vapor coming out of a fertilizer plant in the area mixing with rain in a social media post from Benton County Fire District #1.
According to BCFD1 the plant was shut down when a startup problem was noticed, but there was no threat to the public.
Nutrien released the following statement on the orange cloud around 1:00 p.m. on September 27:
Nutrien was operating normally and as part of its standard operating procedures, a visible cloud released from our Kennewick, Washington facility. The release occurred in accordance with permitted conditions for the site and presents no threat to the health and safety of the community. Nutrien remains steadfastly committed to responsible environmental stewardship and prioritizes the safety of well-being of our employees, the community, and the environment
