A freight train operated by CSX derailed early Monday morning in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, resulting in the evacuation of nearby residents and businesses, according to officials.
The incident occurred in the Plymouth Meeting area of Whitemarsh Township, close to Flourtown Road, Joshua Road, and Stenton Avenue, as stated in a release by Whitemarsh Township.
As a precautionary measure, residents in the vicinity were instructed to evacuate, but it is not anticipated that additional evacuations will be necessary. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries, and there are currently no known risks to the general public. CSX provided a statement stating that 16 out of the 40 cars on the freight train had derailed.
“While initial reports suggest that one of the cars involved in the incident was transporting hazardous materials, there is no evidence of leaks or spills, and the train crew remains unharmed,” the statement affirmed. “As a precautionary measure, the local fire department has ordered the evacuation of approximately a dozen homes.”
CSX also noted that the derailment appeared to be weather-related, although no further details were immediately available. The derailed train cars were carrying silicone pellets, which pose no danger to the public.
Representatives from Norfolk Southern and CSX, along with the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety Emergency Response Team, are present at the site of the derailment.
It was revealed that Norfolk Southern confirmed the train involved belonged to CSX but was operating on Norfolk Southern tracks.
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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the derailment on Twitter, stating, “My team and I are closely monitoring the train derailment in Whitemarsh Twp and providing assistance to local first responders. I appreciate the cooperation of residents following the guidance of local authorities. I encourage you to continue following their instructions.”
