Train Derails and Spills Chemicals in Eastern Kentucky
A train derailed and spilled chemicals in a remote part of eastern Kentucky on Wednesday, prompting officials to encourage residents of a small town to evacuate.
According to Governor Andy Beshear, local officials in Rockcastle County are urging residents of Livingston, a town with a population of about 200, to evacuate.
Railroad operator CSX released a statement saying that the derailment occurred north of Livingston at around 2:30 p.m. local time. At least 16 cars were involved in the incident, with two cars containing sulfur being breached. The sulfur caught fire, releasing sulfur dioxide gas into the air.
CSX is currently conducting air quality testing in the area and is working with local authorities to secure the area and develop a recovery plan.
One crew member was treated at the scene for minor injuries, as reported by CBS affiliate WKYT-TV.
A Red Cross emergency shelter has been opened at a local middle school, and CSX has announced that it will cover the cost of hotel rooms for residents in the town of Mount Vernon.
"You're evacuated, there's 12 to 14 cars in the river, you have to get out of here," said one resident.
Residents were concerned about leaving their Thanksgiving preparations behind.
The governor declared a state of emergency to allocate more resources.
Officials urged people to stay away from the area to allow for a coordinated response.
The extent of the spill and its potential environmental impact are still unknown.
Sulfur dioxide exposure can have respiratory effects, particularly for vulnerable populations.
