Foul Smell Hits Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Authorities on Monday were trying to determine the source of a foul odor that has been reported around the Southland.

"A foul `rotten egg-like' odor has been sensed across vast expanses of Southern California since early this morning,'' Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey said.

"LAFD has been in direct contact with Air Quality Management District executive staff, who are aware of the odor and are investigating,'' Humphrey said. "LAFD is not aware of any specific hazard associated with the odor.''

Humphrey urged people not to call 911 to report the odor.

Sam Atwood of the AQMD said his agency, since midnight, has received more than 100 calls ``reporting a strong, foul rotten egg/sulfur odor'' and field inspectors are investigating the possible cause.

"Residents have complained from a very wide area including the Inland Empire and much of the Los Angeles Basin,'' Atwood said.

"Fish kills, algae blooms and other biologic conditions in lakes can cause strong odors,'' Atwood said. ``Industrial facilities such as wastewater plants also can cause sulfur odors. At this time, AQMD hasn't confirmed any source as the cause of the widespread odor.''

Some schools in the foothills areas of Los Angeles County have implemented their "rainy day'' schedule, which means activities normally taking place outdoors will take place indoors, said Monica Carazo of the Los

Angeles Unified School District. One of the affected schools is Osceola Street Elementary in Sylmar, according to ABC7.

From City News Service