Experiencing snowfall in Maine is common, but it typically comes in white.

This past Tuesday, the town of Rumford, Maine, saw an unusual event as brown snow fell from the sky. Town officials confirmed on Facebook that this phenomenon was caused by a malfunction in a local paper mill, which released spent black liquor into the air, resulting in the unusual color.

Officials advised the public against coming into contact with the snow after testing indicated that its pH level was initially measured at 10, classifying it as alkaline and potentially irritating to the skin. However, subsequent testing by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection later found that the pH levels of the brown snow were “8 or lower.”

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, black liquor is a by-product generated during the paper manufacturing process.

Images show the brown-colored snow covering a local sports field.

The city announced that the mill has agreed to pay for independent testing of the snow.

Is the Brown Snow Dangerous?

Even though the brown snow in Rumford is deemed non-toxic, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection advises residents to avoid skin contact with it.

“We believe that safety risks for the public are low at this moment. However, as a precaution, please refrain from touching or ingesting the brown snow,” Rumford officials stated on their Facebook page.

Local authorities intended to inform the school district to advise children against playing in the brown snow and suggested that pet owners keep their animals away from it as well.

Rain was expected in Rumford on Wednesday, which would help wash away the substance from sidewalks and homes, as noted on the town’s Facebook page. Any concerns regarding the brown snow can be directed to the town manager’s office.