A state of emergency was declared in Rockcastle County, Kentucky, on Nov. 22 after a multiple-car train derailment resulted in a chemical spill, leading to concerns about air quality.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear issued the declaration after 16 rail cars, two of which were carrying molten sulfur, derailed north of Livingston in Rockcastle County at around 2:23 p.m.
No other injuries were reported.
However, the molten sulfur onboard the train subsequently caught fire after the cars were breached, Bryan Tucker, a spokesman for railroad operator CSX, told multiple media.
When molten sulfur burns it is generally known to release sulfur dioxide into the air but the amount won’t be confirmed until health officials are able to take measurements using specialized air monitoring equipment.
That equipment was being sent to the remote part of eastern Kentucky on Wednesday, officials said.
In the meantime, the company was working with emergency crews to extinguish the fire as of late Wednesday.
Residents Urged to Evacuate
“We will work together with the local authorities to secure the area and safety is our top priority as we develop a recovery plan,” the firm said.Livingston has a population of roughly 200 people.
CSX encouraged residents living in close proximity to the incident who are “concerned about their safety” to make their way to lodging that the company has secured in Mount Vernon. The company will cover the cost, officials said.
“In addition to the hotels, the CSX team is working with local restaurants to provide meals for affected residents. CSX is covering the cost for both,” the railroad operator said.
A temporary shelter was also established at Rockcastle County Middle School, and is providing residents impacted by the evacuation with food and water, officials said.
In announcing the state of emergency Wednesday, Mr. Beshear also urged residents of Livingston to evacuate the area.
The declaration allows the state to activate resources, including Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky National Guard, as needed to help protect Kentucky families and communities.
Risks of Exposure to Sulfur Dioxide
“By issuing a state of emergency, we are ensuring that every state resource is available to help keep our families safe,” Mr. Beshear said. “Please stay clear of this area as state, local, and CSX officials respond.”The state’s Energy and Environment Cabinet Emergency Response Team has responded to the scene of the derailment and the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center has been activated, the governor’s office said.
The governor has also activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced goods and services.
“With the state of emergency in place, consumers in the commonwealth can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Under state law, price gougers can be held accountable,” Mr. Beshear’s office said.
Along with residents of Livingston, individuals living in Piney Branch were also asked to evacuate “as a precautionary measure,” state Sen. Brandon Storm, whose district includes Rockcastle County, said in a news release Wednesday night.
It is not immediately clear how extensive the spill was or what impacts it may have on the environment, although officials noted the derailment occurred in a remote area.
Long-term exposure can be especially hazardous to children, the elderly, and people with asthma.
