Ohio train derailment exposure update

On February 3, a train derailed in Eastern Palestine, Ohio which led to a controlled burning on February 6 by the EPA. The burning occurred as a prevention precaution for any possible explosions with the chemicals on board. However, the contents of this train expanded into a wide array of chemicals that contain irritants to humans.

 There was a wide area of exposure according to the EPA where air, surface waters, and surface soils were all effected. The surface soil has been contained, but they're still testing the air because new compounds could have been created by the mixing and burning of these chemicals.

3500 fish were reported to have died in a 7.5 mile stretch at the local streams. Five hens and one rooster reported to have died also just 10 miles east of this incident. State wildlife officials are now concerned with the local Hellbender population as this salamander is listed as an endangered species and does not fair well in changing water conditions.

State officials are currently tracking a plume of chemical exposure related to this incident as it has made its way into portions of the Ohio River in West Virginia. Scientist are able to track the movement of these chemicals in the water and say that the amount of water in the Ohio river has diluted the chemicals posing no risks to residents drinking water.