May 27, 2022 2:00 PM
May 19 - BoulderAIR ECC Station Methane Detection
The plume was detected for approximately 5 hours beginning at 3:30 am. Since exposure to methane in the environment is not known to cause any adverse health effects, there are no established Heath Guideline Values associated with methane, though it is a potent greenhouse gas and is flammable in concentrations greater than 5% by volume. For context, the concentrations measured on May 19th are 0.00052% by volume and lower (~1/10,000th the lower explosive limit for methane). Associated VOCs were slightly elevated above baseline during portions of the event, though none approached any established HGVs. Light windspeeds and erratic wind directions during the event make determining a direction of plume travel impossible to assess. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) was notified of the event on 5/20/2022. CDPHE stated, given no danger was posed to the public at any time, investigation into the event would consist of continued monitoring to determine the frequency and severity of similar events.