Train derails along Montana river; authorities still trying to determine contents
Another train derailment occurred in the U.S. on Sunday, with about 25 cars going off the tracks in Montana, officials said.
The train was not believed to be transporting hazardous materials when the incident occurred along the Clark Fork River near the small community of Paradise, the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office said.
No injuries have been reported, and officials are working to determine the contents of the cars.
“We are committed to addressing any impacts to the area as a result of this accident, prioritizing the safety of our employees and the public, and understanding the reasons for this incident,” said Montana Rail Link, the operator of the train.
The derailment came about two months after dozens of cars on a Norfolk Southern freight train went off the tracks in East Palestine, Ohio. Authorities burned a dangerous chemical, vinyl chloride, from five of those cars in order to prevent an explosion, and many people from the small town were forced to evacuate.
Last week, residents of Raymond, Minn., were ordered to evacuate after a train with approximately 14 cars of ethanol derailed, officials said.
Train derailments also occurred last month in Alabama, Arizona and Springfield, Ohio.
“I’m closely monitoring the train derailment in Sanders County,” Montana Sen. Steve Daines tweeted Sunday. “My office is in close contact with Sanders County officials and @BNSFRailway and MRL officials. The safety of the community is my top priority.”
With News Wire Services
