Eastman: Power outage, release of iodine cause plumes of purple vapor

Officials with Eastman Chemical Company say as of noon on Friday that its Kingsport manufacturing site is experiencing a power outage. Eastman is working to shut down operations safely while crews work to restore power.

Officials go on to say community members may have seen purple vapor/steam on site Friday morning, which was a release of iodine, and presents no threat to the public or Eastman itself. No injuries have been reported and all employees are accounted for. Eastman is working to restore power and operations as soon as possible, and area residents may hear and see loud steam releases during that process. Eastman officials say updates will be given as available.

(Image: Eastman Chemical)