MOSS LANDING >> A community survey conducted in response to the January 2025 fire at the Vistra Moss Landing Energy Storage facility has unveiled significant health concerns and communication shortcomings residents of Monterey and Santa Cruz counties shared.

The survey, completed by 1,539 individuals, indicates that 83% experienced at least one symptom, most commonly headaches, sore throats and coughs following the incident.

The fire, which ignited earlier this year on Jan. 16, led to the evacuation of over 1,200 residents due to the release of toxic smoke from burning lithium-ion batteries. Subsequent environmental assessments detected elevated levels of heavy metals, including manganese, cobalt, and nickel, in the nearby Elkhorn Slough, raising concerns about long-term ecological and health impacts.

A total of 1,539 people completed the survey, with two-thirds from Monterey County and a quarter from Santa Cruz County, according to county officials.

The survey respondents highlighted several key concerns including persistent physical symptoms, potential long-term health effects, environmental safety regarding air, soil, water and food contamination, and deficiencies in emergency alert systems, particularly in the timeliness and clarity of notifications.

Health officials from both counties are using the survey findings to understand symptoms and health concerns related to battery fires, enhance public notification practices, improve outreach efforts, and collaborate with emergency service providers to update response plans.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone that took the time to complete the survey,” said Dr. Edward Moreno, Public Health Director and Health Officer for the County of Monterey in the press release.

The full summary of the community survey and related health and safety information is available on the Ready Monterey County website at https://www.readymontereycounty.org/emergency/2025-moss-landing-vistra-power-plant-fire/community-survey.