Heavy metals found in Elkhorn Slough after California battery facility fire

High levels of heavy metals, including nickel, manganese, and cobalt, have been found in soil samples at Elkhorn Slough after a fire at a nearby lithium battery storage facility. These metals are hundreds to thousands of times higher than pre-fire levels. The fire, which occurred on January 16, destroyed about 80% of the batteries at the Moss Landing Power Plant. Local officials and researchers are concerned about the potential long-term environmental and health effects on the estuary, which is home to endangered species. The Elkhorn Slough Reserve was temporarily closed during the fire, but is now open to visitors. Local health agencies are conducting further testing, while the battery storage site’s owner, Vistra Energy, is investigating the incident and monitoring the environment.