Toxic Heavy Metals Found in Wetlands After California Battery Plant Fire

Researchers detected elevated levels of nickel, cobalt, and manganese near the Moss Landing facility, raising concerns about environmental and health impacts.

• A fire at Vistra Energy's lithium-ion battery storage facility in Moss Landing, California, on January 16 released toxic heavy metals into nearby ecosystems.
• Scientists from San Jose State University found concentrations of nickel, cobalt, and manganese in Elkhorn Slough soil up to 1,000 times higher than previous levels.
• These metals, linked to battery materials, are hazardous to aquatic life and may accumulate in the food chain, potentially affecting wildlife and humans.
• Local residents reported respiratory issues, headaches, and other symptoms following the fire, though the EPA stated no immediate public health risks were detected during air monitoring.
• Monterey County and state agencies are analyzing soil and water samples to assess long-term environmental and health implications, while further research is planned to track the metals' movement through the ecosystem.

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