High lead levels found in area surrounding Notre Dame

Paris police have found astronomically high lead levels in the area surrounding Notre Dame Cathedral’s melted roof, The Associated Press reported Thursday.

Lead levels from the roof in the plaza outside the cathedral and nearby streets were found to be between 10 and 20 grams per kilogram of ground — between 32 and 65 times the recommended limit by French health authorities.

The areas closest to the cathedral are closed to the public.

{mosads}Officials warned that lead dust could coat surfaces of nearby homes and businesses, according to the AP.

Thursday’s statement reportedly recommended a good cleaning with a damp cloth and that pregnant women and children wash hands frequently.

A fire broke out in the the iconic Paris cathedral last month, leaving much of the building destroyed.

Hundreds of tons of lead were used in the cathedral’s frame and the church spire that collapsed, per the AP.