Asbestos Detected in Debris From Historic Centennial Mills Fire
Debris from a fire at the historic Centennial Mills warehouse in Portland, Oregon's Pearl District has tested positive for asbestos. While the city states that air quality monitoring outside the immediate fire area does not indicate a significant health risk,…
Portland, OR, August 6, 2026 —
PORTLAND, OR – Debris recovered from the site of a recent fire at the historic Centennial Mills warehouse in Portland’s Pearl District has tested positive for asbestos, according to city officials. The warehouse, a landmark in the city’s industrial past, was engulfed in flames earlier this month, causing significant damage.
While the city has stated that air quality monitoring conducted outside the immediate vicinity of the fire zone does not currently indicate a substantial health risk to the wider public, the presence of asbestos in the debris has raised concerns among some residents. These concerns were amplified following the temporary closure of a nearby park, which was shut down due to the presence of fire debris.
Residents have voiced anxieties regarding the communication process surrounding the discovery and the potential for exposure. The temporary closure of the park served as a focal point for these concerns, highlighting a perceived gap in information for those living and working in the affected area.
The city is continuing its assessment of the situation and has provided assurances regarding ongoing monitoring efforts. Further details on the extent of the asbestos contamination and the cleanup process are expected to be released as the investigation continues.
Story summarized from the original created by Makenna Marks on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
