Train Derailment in Ohio: What You Need to Know

 

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train carrying a variety of products derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. The violent 50-car crash triggered evacuations for the small town, as large quantities of vinyl chloride and other contaminants entered the environment.

Since then, authorities have been working to contain the spill and assess the environmental impact. In a recent press conference, Governor Mike DeWine provided updates on the ongoing cleanup effort, as well as new information on the situation.

According to the Ohio Public Utilities Commission (PUCO), Ohio wasn't alerted to the train's presence before the derailment. The train wasn't considered a high-hazardous material train, and therefore, the railroad was not required to notify anyone in Ohio about what was in the railcars coming through the state.

The governor called this fact "absurd" and said he plans to bring it to the attention of the congressional delegation. Representatives from the Ohio EPA, the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and other agencies were also present at the news conference.

Water contamination is a significant concern, as a "plume" of water contamination with firefighting chemicals from East Palestine is making its way down the Ohio River. According to Tiffani Kavalec from the Ohio EPA, as of February 15, it was located near Huntington, WV. Kavalec stated that the Ohio River is a large water body that is able to dilute the pollutants pretty quickly.

All contaminants at the scene of the derailment are contained, and large pits are being dug, down to the clay level, to remove contaminated soil. The state's health director, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, reported that air quality tested normal before residents were allowed back in their homes near the derailment.

ODNR reports a fish kill totaling 3,500, and the number is not climbing. The department said no endangered species were affected. Residents using well water near the scene are advised to call for a free test kit offered by the state. Test results on the town's water supply are expected back within 48 hours. In the meantime, Vanderhoff advises anyone breastfeeding or pregnant to use bottled water.

The situation is still developing, and we will continue to monitor the cleanup efforts and provide updates as they become available. For the latest information on the Ohio train derailment, stay tuned to reliable news sources and government agencies.