A multi-car train derailment happened in central Kentucky on Wednesday, November 22, that reportedly released molten sulfur and started a fire. The governor declared a state of emergency, and police urged residents to flee their homes.
Health Risk to Residents
CSX, the train's operator, said in a statement that at least 16 cars were involved in the accident north of Livingston, Kentucky, "including two molten sulphur cars that have been breached and have lost some of their contents which is on fire." The town of Livingston may be found around 60 miles south of Lexington.
Sulfur dioxide is produced during the combustion of molten sulfur, according to CSX. The business noted that specialized equipment is being sent to the region to undertake air monitoring.
The odor of sulfur dioxide is pungent, and it is a colorless gas. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it may induce frostbite if exposed to its liquid form, and it can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat depending on the amount of exposure.
Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky, speaks during a news conference after a gunman opened fire at the Old National Bank building on April 10, 2023 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Evacuation Order From Governor
Meanwhile, the office of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear released a statement saying, "Response efforts for the incident are ongoing, and local officials are encouraging those in the town of Livingston to evacuate," CNN reported.
When Linda Todd was informed about the danger in her Livingston neighborhood, she decided to leave even if it was supposed to be Thanksgiving. "I was freaking out because I said, 'We are cooking, we got turkeys in the ovens. We can't leave.' They were like, 'You have to go, it is a bad situation. You have to go," Todd told WYMT.
Due to the derailment, Beshear has declared a state of emergency, and his office has announced that the state's Emergency Operations Center has been established.
Beshear said that declaring a state of emergency would make all state resources accessible to ensure the safety of residents' families. "Please stay clear of this area as state, local, and CSX officials respond," he said.
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The Wednesday's Accident
At about 2:30 PM local time on Wednesday, CSX reported a derailment. Rockcastle County Sheriff told WKYT that the accident occurred between Mullins Station and Livingston. The train company said one of the two crew members had minor injuries and was treated at the site.
US Route 25 has been closed in both directions from the Laurel County border to Calloway Branch Road as a result of the accident. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for District 8 stated in a social media post on Wednesday night that it is uncertain when the roadway will reopen.
CSX has said it is establishing a recovery strategy and coordinating with local authorities to secure the site.
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