A train derailment in North Dakota caused a fire in railcars carrying hazardous materials, but officials have managed to mostly extinguish it, with no injuries reported. The incident occurred in a remote area surrounded by farmland, with no air contamination reported so far. The derailed cars contained anhydrous ammonia, methanol, and plastic pellets, raising concerns about potential health risks. However, the wind has been carrying the smoke away from the nearby town of Bordulac, minimizing the threat to residents. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the derailment, which involved a CPKC train, a result of a recent railroad merger. The emergency response has been successful, with firefighters continuing to monitor the situation as they move the damaged railcars from the tracks. Health officials warn about the dangers of ammonia exposure, from burning of the eyes and respiratory tract to more severe outcomes like lung damage or death. The railroad company has activated its emergency response plan and is working on a comprehensive coordinated response. Despite the initial scare, the situation is under control, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
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Photo credit kstp.com
North Dakota derailment mostly contains hazardous material in fiery railcars
