Darryl Fears
MOSSVILLE, La. — A day after the 150 mph winds died down and the torrential rains left, the residents of this tiny community were still coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Laura.
But for the people of Mossville, the storm did not cause pollution in their community — it just added to it. For decades, this predominantly Black community has been surrounded by petrochemical plants that have pumped toxic chemicals into the air and water.
Residents have long complained of cancer, respiratory illnesses and other health problems they blame on the plants. Now, Hurricane Laura has added to their burden, damaging facilities and releasing additional pollutants.
“We have been dealing with pollution for 50, 60 years,” said one longtime resident. “The hurricane just made it worse.”
