Ecology issues seasonal warning over asbestos in Sumas River, Swift Creek

EVERSON, Wash. – The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued a seasonal warning for two area rivers.

Residents living near Swift Creek and the Sumas River are being asked to avoid the waters this week, as temperatures remain in the 80’s.

Hotter weather means that naturally-occurring asbestos could be released in the river areas, especially if the waters are disturbed.

Both Swift Creek and the Sumas River carry asbestos sediment down from Sumas Mountain.

Airborne asbestos is known to cause a variety of health issues if inhaled.