Category: Atlanta

One great foodie event is the Atlanta Mimosa Festival, which takes place the third weekend in October in Georgia’s biggest city.

The Mimosa Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.

Just to be clear, the mimosa festival will also have wine, beer, mixed drinks, live music,  and more.

If you’re a fan of mimosas, you don’t want to miss this event, which is slated for Oct. 19 in Midtown Atlanta’s Atlantic Station. This is an age 21+ event.

Atlanta Mimosa Festival: Everything You Need To know

Attendees can expect all types of mimosas such as:

Orange, Orange Mango, Orange Pineapple, to name a few, as well as bellinis, wine, beer, Brunch Punch, Vodka & Bourbon Mules and Bloody Marys and more.

When Is The Atlanta Mimosa Festival?

Atlanta Mimosa Festival will be Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Historic 4th Ward Skate Park.

• Session 1: 12pm-4pm
• Session 2: 6pm-10pm

Get tickets here

The festival will also have Live Music to keep you entertained.

This event will feature our favorite drink, the Mimosa. We’ll have several different flavors to choose from, Orange, Orange Mango, Orange Pineapple, to name a few, as well as bellinis, wine, beer, Brunch Punch, and Bloody Marys. We’ll have Live Music and DJ Qtip to keep you entertained.

Where Is The Mimosa Festival Taking Place?

The Mimosa Festival is happening at Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot, 221 20th St, Atlanta, GA 30363. Here’s a map to help you find it.

What Do You Have Planned in Atlanta For the Weekend?

If you’ve been searching for a great dining experience outdoors, Atlanta’s new restaurants are a great place to start. Wonder where the best outdoor dining is in the city?

Let’s look at some of the best places to eat outdoors in Atlanta, Georgia.

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• All The Fun Things To Do In North Georgia
• These Atlanta Places Are Great To Watch the Fall Leaves
• Feeling adventurous? Here Are Some Outdoorsy Things To Do In ATL

Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida’s west coast as tens of thousands of people flee north into Georgia. If you’re one of those evacuees, it’s no doubt you need resources.

This article will show you some free resources you can take advantage of in Georgia in light of the storm.

For Floridians evacuating Hurricane Milton, there are several free resources available in Georgia:

Shelters

Multiple Georgia state parks are offering shelter options for families fleeing the storm. These parks are specifically prepared to accommodate evacuees.

Here are some shelters available in South Georgia for Hurricane Milton evacuees:

1. Georgia State Parks: Various state parks in Georgia are open to evacuees. It’s recommended to check the availability and specific locations through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

2. Atlanta Motor Speedway: This facility has opened its grounds for evacuees, providing space for camping and sheltering.

3. Local Emergency Shelters: Various emergency shelters operated by the city and county authorities are prepared to assist evacuees. It’s recommended to check with the Atlanta City Government’s official website or contact local emergency management for specific locations.

U-Haul Free Storage

U-Haul has extended an offer for free self-storage, which can be particularly helpful for those needing to store belongings temporarily while evacuating.

Local Assistance

Check local county and city websites in Georgia for additional resources such as food assistance, safe places to stay, or any community programs designed to help evacuees.

FEMA Resources

Visit FEMA.gov for information on disaster assistance and resources available to those affected by the hurricane. For up-to-date information and resources, it’s essential to stay connected to local news outlets and official government announcements.
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One of the heroes of the Falcons overtime win against the Tampa Bay Bucs was backup receiver KhaDarel Hodge. You probably don’t know much about him.

After a thrilling 36-30 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football, fans know exactly who he was. His 45-yard catch-and-run touchdown in overtime was the difference.

KhaDarel honed his football skills in small town Texas. After high school, he attended Hinds Community College, where he transitioned to wide receiver, for one season before joining the squad at a small HBCU in Texas, Prairie View A&M University.

He then went undrafted in 2018. He caught on with the practice squads for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions before signing with the Falcons in 2022.

KhaDarel Hodge finally got his star turn Thursday night against the Bucs. Here’s what he had to say after the game.

Here are some key details about him: 

• Born: January 3, 1995, in D’Lo, Mississippi
• Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
• Weight: 208 lbs
• College: Prairie View A&M University
• NFL Career: He went undrafted in 2018 and was initially signed by the Los Angeles Rams.

Hodge has proved to be a pretty interesting guy away from the field. He’s active on Instagram, where he shares his humorous side.

Throughout his career, he has also played for the Cleveland Browns before joining the Falcons in 2022. As of now, Hodge has appeared in multiple games and has made significant contributions to his teams over the years.

Final Word

The Falcons schedule is shaping up favorably. Can they make the playoffs? Stay tuned.

The Atlanta Falcons’ thrilling overtime win at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers shed some light on some of the good things the team is doing lately. Let’s get into it.

1. Kirk Cousins Is the Come-Behind King

Cousins was masterful in overtime with the big-time throw to lead the team to victory and throwing for 509 yards, but he’s done it all season. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, down by six with 1:39 left on the clock, the veteran quarterback engineered a 70-yard drive, finishing it off with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Drake London with 34 seconds left in the game.

he drove the Falcons done the field in the closing seconds and did the same against Kansas City, although it didn’t end the same.

His last-minute wins are why the Falcons are 3-2 at this juncture, rather than 0-5. Against the Bucs, Cousins continually found Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Darnell Mooney.

2. Kyle Pitts Is Still Alive

Left for dead over the past three games, tight end Kyle Pitts came alive with seven catches for 88 yards.

Going into the game, the talk was that Pitts and Cousins just couldn’t get on the same page and that the Falcons most likely would do well to trade him. But judging from Pitts’ performance against the Bucs, he is very much still a big part of the offense and just needs to continue to find his groove.

Cousins found him repeatedly over the middle and on the ends when the Bucs tried to blitz from the cornerback position. Can Pitts put together back-to-back good games? That remains to be seen.

3. The Swag Surf Advantage Is Real

DJ Big Tigger knows when to press the homecrowd into action. With the game on the line, the Falcons were energized when the crowd Swag Surfed once again. This time, even Kirk Cousins got in on the action.

4. The Falcons-Bucs Rivalry Is Real

The rivalry between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is one of the notable divisional matchups in the NFL, characterized by close contests, memorable moments, and a shared history within the NFC South division. Here’s a deep dive into their football history:

Origins of the Rivalry

• Formation of the Buccaneers: The rivalry began when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined the NFL in 1976. At that time, they played in the NFC Central division while the Atlanta Falcons were part of the NFC West.
• Early Meetings: The first meeting between the two teams took place on December 18, 1977, with the Falcons defeating the Buccaneers 17-0. The two teams didn’t become regular opponents until 2002 when they were both placed in the NFC South during the NFL’s realignment.

The NFC South Era (2002-Present)

The rivalry truly took shape in 2002 when the Falcons and Buccaneers were both placed in the newly created NFC South division, ensuring that they would play each other twice a season.

Key Aspects of the Rivalry:

• Parity and Close Contests: The games between the Falcons and Buccaneers have often been competitive, with the two teams trading victories and both franchises going through cycles of success and struggle.
• Divisional Stakes: As divisional rivals, these games frequently carry playoff implications, particularly during seasons where both teams are in contention for the NFC South title or a Wild Card spot.
• Fan Engagement: The proximity between Atlanta and Tampa Bay (roughly 450 miles) means that fans of both teams often travel to each other’s cities, adding intensity to the matchups.

Notable Moments

• 2002 Season: After realignment, the Buccaneers were dominant during their first season in the NFC South, ultimately winning the Super Bowl in 2002. The Falcons, led by young quarterback Michael Vick, would provide tough competition for Tampa Bay over the years but didn’t have the same level of success early on.
• 2004-2006: The rivalry heated up as both teams were competitive in the mid-2000s. Vick’s electrifying play and Tampa Bay’s strong defense led to some memorable showdowns.
• 2008-2012: During this period, both teams experienced success. The Buccaneers were in a rebuilding phase, but the Falcons, led by quarterback Matt Ryan and head coach Mike Smith, began to dominate the division. From 2008 to 2012, the Falcons won six out of the 10 matchups against the Bucs, including a memorable 2012 overtime win.
• 2016: The Falcons had a standout season, making a Super Bowl appearance. That year, they swept the Buccaneers in their regular-season matchups, highlighting their superiority in the division.
• 2020-2021: With Tom Brady joining the Buccaneers in 2020, Tampa Bay became a dominant force, winning the Super Bowl in Brady’s first season. They swept the Falcons in both 2020 and 2021, signaling a resurgence in Tampa Bay’s favor after a long period where Atlanta had been more successful.

Final Word

The Falcons had themselves a night by first, forcing overtime and then winning the game. Way to go, Falcons.

Check out the Atlanta Falcons 2024 schedule.

Jamie Foxx is doing a couple of one-man shows this week in Atlanta. The actor and singer is no stranger to Atlanta, having filmed various movies in the metro area through the years. This time, he comes back as headliner.

The performances, which were originally titled “One More Chance: An Evening with Jamie Foxx,” are now being called “What Had Happened Was.” The show dates are Thursday October 3, 4, and 5 at t the Coca-Cola Stage at Atlanta’s Alliance Theater.

“Join us for an unforgettable one-man show as I share my journey through a serious health scare, filled with humor, heart, and inspiration,” Foxx shared on Instagram. “Experience a side of me you’ve never seen before in this intimate performance, where I’ll open up about my struggles, triumphs, and everything in between.”

He also wrote: “I have some people to thank in a big way. If you’re in Atlanta around that time and you’ve been rocking with me this whole time let me thank you personally.”

Final Word

Live performances have sort of become a nighttime occurrence here in Atlanta, with several venues hosting acts every weekend.

Georgia’s biggest city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers. Check out who’s performing in Atlanta. The city has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. 
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:

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The Atlanta Braves have been eliminated from the Major League Baseball postseason after Wednesday’s loss to the San Diego Padres.

Braves Manager Brian Snitka said despite the sour ending, he was proud of his squad.

“Nobody’s ever ‘woe is me’ or griping about anything, this or that, they just keep playing,” he said in postgame comments. “They kept working. Their energy never waned. Their attitude never waned. I’m about as proud of the team as I’ve ever been.”

The Braves began the season with pennant aspirations, but key injuries proved to be too much to overcome.

In 2024, the Braves have faced several key injuries that have impacted their season:

Braves’ 2024 Season Marred by Key Injuries

• Ronald Acuña Jr.: Placed on the 60-day injured list due to a torn left ACL, he is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
• Spencer Strider: The ace right-hander required season-ending elbow surgery after participating in only two games this season.
• Austin Riley: The slugging third baseman suffered a fractured right hand in mid-August and was ruled out for the playoffs.
• A.J. Minter: The key reliever is dealing with left hip inflammation.
• Huascar Ynoa: He is experiencing right shoulder discomfort, which has affected his availability. These injuries have contributed to a challenging season for the Braves, especially as they approached the playoffs.

Final Word

The 2024 season for the Atlanta Braves was marked by significant challenges but also notable achievements:

The team began the season with strong performances, maintaining a competitive position in the National League East.

Offensive Production Was an Issue

Despite the setbacks, players like Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley continued to produce, helping the Braves remain competitive in many games. With the injuries to key pitchers, the Braves struggled to maintain consistency on the mound. Their bullpen faced heightened pressure as younger pitchers stepped up to fill roles.

Final Word

The Braves managed to secure a playoff spot, demonstrating resilience throughout the season. They finished with a solid record, which allowed them to compete in the postseason, but they couldn’t win a game once October began.

Overall, while the season was hampered by injuries, the Braves still showed promise and competitiveness, setting the stage for a hopeful bounce-back in the following season.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Where To Play Pickleball in Atlanta
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The Mall West End, a longstanding retail property slated for transformation into a mixed-use district, has officially been sold for redevelopment.

In a Tuesday announcement, Atlanta officials confirmed the acquisition. Atlanta Urban Development Corp., in partnership with BRP Cos. and The Prusik Group, plans to replace the mall with affordable housing, retail shops, restaurants, and office spaces.

“”This is a long-awaited new era for the West End. This is not just a redevelopment of the Mall West End—this is fulfilling a commitment to a community,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a press release. “Our Administration is dedicated to creating affordable housing and vibrant business spaces that respect and preserve the rich legacy of this historic neighborhood. Together with our partners, we will work to ensure the heart and soul of the West End continues to thrive under our stewardship.”

What Is the Redevelopment Plan for West End Mall?

The redevelopment of the Mall West End will be a multi-year process, with the project team actively engaging residents, legacy business owners, and other stakeholders to gather input and feedback. Construction on the Mall West End redevelopment is expected to begin in 2025, with phase one completion slated for 2026.

 The West End redevelopment plan includes:

• Approximately 125,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store, fitness center, food & beverage, and local boutiques
• Approximately 900 mixed-income rental units, with 70% workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% AMI, and 10% at 80% AMI
• A minimum of 10,00 square foot of affordable commercial space allocated for qualified small, local businesses
• Student-targeted housing
• A planned 150-key hotel
• A planned 12,000 square feet of medical office space
• Extensive community amenities such as activated street scape, fitness center, resident lounges, and bike parking

Funding includes a $5 million acquisition loan from Atlanta Urban Development, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (led by President and CEO Clyde Higgs) and $19 million in acquisition financing provided by Merchants Capital.

In July 2024, the City of Atlanta detailed plans to do something big with West End mall, a staple of the West End section of the city.

Approximately 120,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store, fitness center, food & beverage, and local boutiques, 893 mixed-income rental units, with 70% workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% AMI, and 10% at 80% AMI for 271 total affordable housing units, 152 beds of student-targeted housing, a 150-key hotel, 12,000 square feet of medical office space, and extensive community amenities such as a public green space, fitness center, pool, resident lounge, and bike parking.

“With affordable housing at the forefront, the West Enddevelopment represents a unique opportunity to revitalize and reinvest in the West Endcommunity, creating a more vibrant, connected, and equitable neighborhood,” said John Majors, CEO of the Atlanta Urban Development Corporation. “We are proud to partner with BRP Companies on this project with the support of Mayor Dickens, and deliver this well-deserved, transformative project. AUD exists to bring innovative, unique collaborations to market that yield substantially more affordable housing than would otherwise be possible.”

The Mall West End, surrounded by expansive surface parking, is located near MARTA’s West End station, less than a mile from the Lee + White retail and entertainment district along the Beltline’s Westside Trail, and just steps away from the Atlanta University Center.

The $450 million redevelopment will be backed by a $5 million acquisition loan from the AUDC, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline Inc., and $19 million in acquisition financing from Merchants Capital, according to the release.

Final Word

Yes, Atlanta is changing. And it’s not just the buildings. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!

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• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
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Georgia public safety officials warned metro Atlanta residents that Thursday morning they may literally get wind of the chlorine plume coming from Conyers, three days after a chemical fire creating a public safety threat.

The chemical plume, originating from the chlorine leak at the BioLab facility in Conyers, is being pushed westward toward metro Atlanta by wind conditions, officials said Wednesday, Oct. 2.

On Thursday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens addressed the fumes over Atlanta saying that the city was working with state health officials and that the chlorine smells were below unsafe levels.

Day 5: Chlorine Plume Over Metro Atlanta

A statement from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) suggest that residents in inner metro Atlanta may notice the smell of chlorine. Chlorine readings have exceeded “action levels” in certain areas, and officials are advising caution. While there was a shelter-in-place order affecting around 90,000 residents, it has been lifted for most areas. However, residents are still being advised to stay alert and take precautions as the situation develops.

“The current weather models show the winds will begin to shift from the east to the west after sunset Wednesday,” GEMA said. “Smoke is predicted to settle towards the ground as it moves toward Atlanta. There is a high likelihood that people across Metro Atlanta will wake up on Thursday morning seeing haze and smelling chlorine.”

The agency went on to say that as the air settles each evening, smoke tends to settle toward the Earth. “As the air lifts back up in the afternoon and evening, the smell and haze should dissipate. Chlorine has a very low odor threshold, meaning you can smell it before it reaches a harmful level,” the agency said.

In a Tuesday news conference, Rockdale Chairman Oz Nesbit said that an earlier alert that lifted a shelter in place for the county was sent before the wind patterns shifted and is no longer in effect. “We can’t control the weather,” he said.

“Let me make this very clear. You will continue to see the plume. The plume is part of the mitigating process,” he added.

How To Protect Yourself From Bad Air

Protecting yourself from chlorine gas exposure requires prompt action, as chlorine gas is highly toxic when inhaled. Here are the steps to take if you believe chlorine gas is present in the air:

1. Recognize Chlorine Gas Exposure Symptoms

• Early Symptoms: These may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, irritation of the eyes and throat, and a strong chlorine odor (similar to bleach).
• Severe Symptoms: If exposure continues, it can cause severe respiratory distress, burning of the lungs, nausea, vomiting, fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema), and even death.

2. Evacuate the Area Immediately

• Move Upwind and Uphill: Chlorine gas is heavier than air, so it will settle in low-lying areas. Quickly move to higher ground and head in the direction opposite to where the wind is blowing from to minimize further exposure.
• Distance Matters: Try to get as far away from the source as possible. Even moving a mile away may significantly reduce your exposure.

3. Use a Respiratory Protection Device

If you have access to any of the following protective gear, use it:

• Gas Mask with Chemical Cartridge (Specifically for Chlorine): The most effective protection comes from wearing a full-face gas mask with cartridges specifically designed to filter out chlorine gas.
• Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): This is used by first responders and industrial workers in hazardous environments. SCBAs supply clean air from a tank, protecting you from inhaling toxic gas.

If specialized equipment isn’t available:

• Improvised Protection: Although far less effective, you can cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to reduce inhalation of chlorine gas. Wet the cloth with water, a weak acidic solution like vinegar, or even a baking soda solution (which can neutralize some of the chlorine). However, this is only a temporary measure and will not provide full protection.

4. Shelter Indoors

If evacuation is not possible, follow these steps to reduce exposure:

• Seal the Building: Go indoors and close all windows, doors, and vents. Shut down air conditioning and heating systems to prevent gas from entering the building.
• Shelter in an Interior Room: Choose a room with few windows and doors, preferably on a higher floor. Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal any gaps around doors, windows, and vents to prevent gas from leaking inside.
• Use a HEPA Air Filter: If available, turn on a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter. While this won’t fully filter out chlorine gas, it can help reduce airborne particulates and contaminants in the air.

5. Decontaminate If Exposed

If you have come into contact with chlorine gas:

• Remove Contaminated Clothing: Take off any clothing that may have been exposed to the gas as soon as possible. Cut off the clothing rather than pulling it over your head to avoid further exposure.
• Rinse Exposed Skin and Eyes: Immediately rinse your skin and eyes with large amounts of water to flush out any chlorine. Use cool or lukewarm water, not hot.
• Seek Fresh Air: Continue to breathe fresh air as much as possible to help clear your lungs of the gas.

6. Seek Medical Attention

• Call Emergency Services: If you or someone else is experiencing significant symptoms of chlorine gas exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, chest pain, or dizziness require urgent care.
• Long-Term Effects: Even after the exposure has ended, chlorine gas can cause lasting damage to the lungs and airways. Medical professionals may provide oxygen, bronchodilators, or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and help you recover.

Final Word

Being a mile away from a chlorine leak still poses a potential risk depending on wind conditions and the severity of the leak. Shelter-in-place is often the best immediate action, but staying informed and following guidance from local authorities is crucial.

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Early Tuesday morning, the Rockdale County EMA officials sent an alert to area residents, warning them that, “The plume has consistently shifted throughout the night. We ask that you shelter in place if the plume moves over your vicinity or if there is a strong odor of chlorine.”

In a Tuesday news conference, Rockdale Chairman Oz Nesbit said that an earlier alert that lifted a shelter in place for the county was sent before the wind patterns shifted and is no longer in effect. “We can’t control the weather,” he said.

“Let me make this very clear. You will continue to see the plume. The plume is part of the mitigating process,” he added.

BioLab Plume Still Visible In Conyers

As residents coped with the discomfort of stinging eyes and itchy throats for another day, several lawsuits have popped up against BioLab.

“Be patient with us. We have the right experts on the ground and we want to make sure that we’re communicating cohesively,” he said.

This marks the third day that metro Atlanta residents are dealing with air quality issues related to a fire at the Biolab site in Conyers, Georgia.

“If you have respiratory issues, we encourage you to shelter in place. We will provide an update as quickly as possible,” the Rockdale EMA says in the alert.

Residents in Rockdale are still being asked to shelter in place days after a chemical fire at the Biolab facility on Old Covington Highway in Conyers, Georgia. The chlorine spread has not stayed in Conyers though. Residents in Gwinnett, East Point, Atlanta, Fulton and DeKalb have all reported being affected.

In this article, we’ll show you how to check the air quality index where you live as well as what to do in case of chlorine gas poisoning.

BioLab Chrorine Plume: What We Know

Officials said that it may take several days for the smoke to leave the area, which has forced school cancellations and led to road blockages.

Officials have said that what’s burning at the Biolab facility is chlorine, which can be deadly in high exposure. You may have a sore or itchy throat and eyes after being exposed, which should dissipate in a day or so.

For more extended exposure, it could cause respiratory problems, which will require to go to the hospital.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement Monday, “We are aware of the incident in Conyers, Georgia and are working diligently to ensure the safety of those in and around Atlanta.”

“The Atlanta-Fulton County EMA said, “We are investigating the numerous reports of a haze and strong chemical smell across Fulton County. We are investigating and will pass along any and all information we receive. If you have concerns, STAY INSIDE, CLOSE windows and doors, TURN OFF A/C & other ventilation system.”

What Is the Air Quality Index for Atlanta and Conyers?

For Conyers, the PM2.5 concentration is currently 5 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value.

The AQI is calculated based on the concentrations of five major pollutants: ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants are measured by air quality monitoring stations, and the data is then converted into AQI values using standardized formulas. The AQI scale is divided into six categories, each representing a different level of health concern.

In Atlanta, the AQI, was still not where it should be.

“The air has reached a high level of pollution and is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Reduce time spent outside if you are feeling symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation,” according to Accuweather.

How To Check Air Quality Near You

There are several ways to check the air quality near you, ranging from using apps to government websites or physical devices. Here’s a detailed guide on how you can monitor the air quality in your area:

1. Air Quality Monitoring Apps

• BreezoMeter: This app provides detailed real-time air quality maps, forecasts, and health recommendations. It also integrates pollen data for those with allergies.
• Plume Labs’ Air Report: This app offers real-time pollution levels and a 24-hour forecast for air quality. It also provides personalized health advice based on the current air quality.
• AirNow App: Developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this app provides real-time air quality information. It shows the Air Quality Index (AQI) for your location and provides alerts for poor air quality.
• AQICN App: This global air quality app shows real-time data from thousands of monitoring stations worldwide. It uses color-coded AQI levels, making it easy to understand the air quality at a glance.

For a quick glance at air quality, you can also go to Accuweather.

2. Government and Official Websites

AirNow.gov (U.S.): The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s official site offers a detailed map of current air quality across the country. You can enter your zip code or use the interactive map to find real-time data.

What Is Chlorine Gas Poisoning And How Can You Tell?

Chlorine gas poisoning occurs when a person inhales chlorine gas, a highly toxic substance that can cause severe respiratory and other health effects. Chlorine gas is commonly used in industrial and chemical processes and as a disinfectant, but it becomes dangerous when it is inhaled or comes into contact with skin or mucous membranes. Chlorine is heavier than air, so it tends to settle in low-lying areas, making it especially dangerous in confined spaces.

How Chlorine Gas Poisoning Occurs

Chlorine gas is released through various means, such as:

• Accidental industrial leaks in chemical plants, water treatment facilities, or other manufacturing sites.
• Household accidents, such as mixing bleach (which contains sodium hypochlorite) with acidic cleaners or ammonia, can produce chlorine gas.
• Deliberate release as part of chemical attacks or warfare.

When inhaled, chlorine gas reacts with the moisture in the respiratory tract to form hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acid, both of which are corrosive and can cause damage to cells and tissues.

Symptoms of Chlorine Gas Poisoning

The severity of symptoms depends on the concentration of the chlorine gas and the duration of exposure. Mild to moderate exposure typically results in symptoms like:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Coughing and choking
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest tightness or pain
• Watery eyes
• Burning sensation in the throat and nose
• Nausea and vomiting

Severe exposure can lead to more serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
• Severe pulmonary irritation leading to bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways)
• Pulmonary edema (fluid buildup in the lungs), which can cause coughing up pink, frothy sputum
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Loss of consciousness
• Damage to internal organs from oxygen deprivation

Long-Term Effects

• Chronic respiratory issues: Prolonged or severe exposure can result in long-term lung damage, including chronic bronchitis or reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS).
• Scarring in the lungs: Chronic exposure can lead to scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs, reducing lung function permanently.
• Increased risk of lung infections: Those who experience severe exposure may be more prone to respiratory infections and diseases.

Treatment for Chlorine Gas Poisoning

Immediate treatment is crucial to minimize the damage caused by chlorine gas poisoning:

1. Get to Fresh Air: Move the affected person away from the source of chlorine gas into fresh air as quickly as possible.
2. Decontaminate: If chlorine gas has come into contact with the skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove any contaminated clothing.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Medical care is essential, even for moderate exposure. Treatment often includes:
   • Oxygen therapy: Administered to help with breathing and reduce hypoxia (low oxygen levels).
   • Bronchodilators: Medications to open the airways if bronchospasm occurs.
   • Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
   • Nebulized medication: For more severe breathing difficulties, nebulized treatments with bronchodilators can help relax the airways.
4. Hospitalization: Severe cases may require hospitalization, particularly if pulmonary edema or ARDS develops. Mechanical ventilation may be necessary for critically ill patients.

How To Protect Yourself From a Chlorine Leak

Use Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Gas Mask: If you are in a situation where you anticipate exposure to chlorine, a full-face respirator with chemical cartridges rated for chlorine or acidic gases is the best form of protection.
• Clothing: Cover as much skin as possible to prevent irritation from chlorine exposure. Use gloves, long sleeves, and protective eyewear if available.

8. After Exposure

• Rinse Skin and Eyes: If you suspect chlorine exposure, rinse any affected skin and eyes with water for at least 15 minutes to remove any chlorine particles.
• Seek Medical Attention: If you experience coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or eye irritation, seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem mild. Chlorine exposure can cause delayed respiratory damage.

Final Word

Being a mile away from a chlorine leak still poses a potential risk depending on wind conditions and the severity of the leak. Shelter-in-place is often the best immediate action, but staying informed and following guidance from local authorities is crucial.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
• Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
• Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About