A train carrying hazardous materials derailed in Montana on Saturday, dumping toxic substances into the Yellowstone River.
The accident occurred as the train was crossing a bridge over the river between Reed Point and Columbus, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials said.
Some of the cars that fell into the Yellowstone stream contained molten sulfur and asphalt. This was reported by Stillwater County Emergency and Disaster Services, who further explained that "two cars carrying sodium hydro sulfate are also included in the consist," but "neither of these have entered the water."
Shortly after the incident, access to portions of the Yellowstone and Stillwater Rivers was prohibited. In addition, the water intakes downstream of the site were shut off.
Montana Rail Link, the company that owns the train, informed that they are working with authorities to control the spill of hazardous substances and mitigate the impacts of the event.
🚨#BREAKING: Train derails into Yellowstone River after bridge collapsed sparking fears of hazardous spills
Currently A large emergency response is underway after a freight train fell into the Yellowstone River near Laurel, Montana. The train was crossing… pic.twitter.com/4VWyC2lLOY
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) June 24, 2023
The Montana incident joins a long list of derailments so far this year. Some of them also involved spills of toxic materials, such as the one in East Palestine, Ohio, in February and the one near Wyndmere, N.D., in March.
