Coal Ash Ponds in the Path of Hurricanes Florence and Michael

(Note, 10/9/18: Hurricane Michael is currently projected to make landfall as a major hurricane along the Florida Gulf Coast, and then traverse much of the same area that was affected by Hurricane Florence. This is one of several fact sheets prepared in advance of Hurricane Florence on environmental threats in the Southeast. For maps and information specific to Florida, please see the downloadable files at the bottom of this post.)

Numerous coal-fired power plants with onsite storage of coal ash waste are in the potential path of Hurricane Florence. Coal ash ponds can be susceptible to failure or spillage during heavy precipitation events or flooding, with devastating consequences for the environment, wildlife and human health.

The factsheet and data file linked below provide further information on coal ash ponds in the Southeast.