A train derailment event in Pennsylvania’s Montgomery County has led to the evacuation of residents and businesses in the vicinity. The incident occurred on a CSX Norfolk Southern train early on Monday, around 5 a.m. near Stenton Avenue, Flourtown Road, and Joshua Road in Whitemarsh Township. It is estimated that 15 to 20 cars out of the total 40 on the train, thought to be carrying potentially harmful materials, derailed due to weather-related issues.
FOX 29 was informed by sources that a Level 2 hazmat response was activated following the accident. However, the police have clarified that the only substance leaking from the train cars are silicone pellets, which don’t pose any significant risk to public health.
Local emergency teams have swiftly reacted to the accident, with evacuations initiated for the residents and businesses closest to the derailment site. On-site, there are representatives from Norfolk Southern, CSX, and the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Response Team, working together to manage the situation.
Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania, has taken to Twitter to express his concern and support. His tweet acknowledged the efforts of local first responders and urged residents to continue adhering to the instructions of local authorities for their safety.
CSX has stated that the derailment was caused by weather conditions. In an official statement, the company confirmed that preliminary reports suggested the involvement of one car transporting hazardous materials. However, there are no indications of any hazardous materials leaks or spills, nor were there any injuries to the train crew. Evacuations of a small number of homes were carried out as a preventive measure.
As investigations continue into the derailment, officials are keen to assure the public of their safety and the non-hazardous nature of the leaked silicone pellets. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, striving to maintain public safety while resolving the incident swiftly and effectively.
