Assessment of early July Black Particulate Event

Hamilton Public Health has completed its own assessment of the early July black particulate event based on available data and information.  

Read the City's Media Release: Public Health completes assessment of July black particulate event

Event Summary

• Between July 5, 2026 and July 24, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) received 632 complaints from Hamilton residents about black fallout (i.e. black dust, oily or sticky material and soot).
• On July 7, 2026, Hamilton Public Health began receiving complaints from residents of the same nature.
• Since receiving these complaints, Hamilton Public Health has been working with the MECP, who is the authority responsible for investigating potential environmental contaminants, to address residents' concerns related to the black fallout incident.
• A summary of the complaints received by Hamilton Public Health indicates that the material was mainly experienced in Hamilton’s east end, including Wards 2, 3, 4 and 6.
• The complaints also suggested that the material was difficult to wash off and was found on furniture, housing, vehicles, porches, sidewalks, pets, hands, feet and clothing. 
• Following complaints received, Hamilton Public Health took a comprehensive approach to performing its own assessment of the incident based on available data and information. 

Read the full assessment of early July Black Particulate Event