Freight Train Carrying Hazardous Materials Derails and Catches Fire in Maine
A freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed and caught fire near Rockwood, a village in central Maine causing a large forest fire. Though none of the hazardous material containers caught fire, the derailment resulted in three locomotives and six railcars carrying lumber and electrical wiring to derail. The type of hazardous materials being carried by the train was not immediately provided.
No Hazardous Materials Were Being Carried by the Derailed Train Cars
According to local reports, no hazardous materials were being carried by the derailed train cars. A small forest fire was sparked by the derailment, but hazardous materials are not at risk of leaking or catching fire. The derailment likely occurred due to a “track washout” caused by a buildup of melting ice and debris.
Three Railroad Employees Suffered Non-life-threatening Injuries
Three railroad employees suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to nearby hospital for treatment. Public safety was not under threat, but people were asked to avoid the area. The fire resulting from the derailment is now contained and being monitored by local emergency first responders.
Main Rail Network Inaugurated on Friday Connecting Canada, US and Mexico
The rail network involved in the derailment was inaugurated on Friday and combines railways from Canada and the US to create the first single line railway connecting Canada, the US, and Mexico. While authorities confirmed that there is no threat to public health or safety, regulators and members of Congress are urging railroads to do more to prevent derailments after recent fiery wrecks in Ohio and Minnesota involving hazardous chemicals prompted evacuations.
In conclusion, though there were no hazardous material leaks or fires caused by the freight train carrying them that derailed and resulting fire in central Maine, three locomotives, and six rail cars carrying lumber and electrical wiring were affected. Three railroad employees suffered injuries but not life-threatening. The situation is now under control with no threat to public health or safety.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
