"In Richmond late last month, the James River flooded to more than 16 feet, its highest since 2010. The state health department closed sections to shellfish harvesting because floodwaters likely contained disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
Now, a new report looks at another danger to communities when the James floods – toxic chemicals and contaminants from industrial areas along the river.
The changing climate is bringing more extreme storms and frequent rains to Virginia. Communities along the James River from the tiny city of Covington down to the industrial cities of Hampton Roads are experiencing increased flooding. But it's industrial areas next to the most vulnerable neighborhoods that concerns David Flores, a policy analyst who co-authored the Center for Progressive Reform report: Toxic Floodwaters."
Pamela D'Angelo reports for WVTF March 6, 2019.
