A train derailment took place in Stillwater County in Montana, United States. The authorities reported that the situation caused the bridge over the Yellowstone River to collapse. As the structure was falling to pieces, a number of cars were sent into the waters below the bridge.
The emergency occurred at 6 a.m., today Saturday, June 24. According to reports from officials, the train was carrying “petroleum derivatives” inside some of its cars. This provoked an environmental alarm across Stillwater County with authorities promptly acting over the hazardous situation.
The director for emergencies in the county, KC Williams stated that “three of the railcars that derailed were carrying hot asphalt, and four were carrying molten sulfur.” In addition, two railcars were transporting sodium hydrosulfate, a dangerous corrosive substance. Fortunately, none of the materials were leaked into the river.
Similarly, officials have stated that there is not an immediate threat at the moment and that the scene is being treated with necessary precautions in place. Statements also confirmed that there are not any harmed. injured or deceased people in the crew. However, residents of the area are showing their concern regarding the state of the water supply.
All of our water comes through the river for our wells and our irrigation and everything, so it gets a little concerning when you have toxic stuff coming into your wells.”
Moreover, the incident on the bridge resulted in the closure of some access points to the Yellowstone and Stillwater areas. As a result, fishing accesses were closed as water treatment plants, irrigation districts, and industrial industries take precautions to mitigate hazards and promptly resolve the emergency.