A Dangerous Chemical Leak Prompts an Evacuation Order in an Ohio Town
Residents in the Cleves and Whitewater Township areas of Hamilton County, Ohio, were ordered to evacuate on Tuesday afternoon after a dangerous chemical leak was reported near the intersection of US-50 and OH-128. The leak, confirmed by the Central Railroad of Indiana, involved a railcar venting styrene, a colorless, flammable liquid used in the production of plastics and rubber.
Styrene Gas Leak and Evacuation Orders
The incident began around 1 p.m. when the Central Railroad of Indiana was notified that one of its railcars was releasing styrene gas. Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) initially advised residents to go indoors and seal off their homes, closing windows, doors, fireplaces, and turning off their heat. The EMA later issued an urgent evacuation order for those within a half-mile radius of the railyard, including the areas around US-50, OH-128, and Valley Junction Road.
Local Schools and Businesses Affected
The leak also affected nearby schools and businesses. Three Rivers Local School District initiated an evacuation process for students and staff, while Kroger closed its store near the leak. The Miami Township branch of the library was also closed as a precaution.
Response and Shelter
First responders, including firefighters, rushed to the scene. Aerial video footage captured firefighters spraying water on the train car, attempting to contain the leak. The Hamilton County EMA opened shelters for the public at the Whitewater Community Center at 6125 Dry Ford Road and the Miami Township Hall at 112 S. Miami Avenue.
The Impact of Styrene Exposure
Styrene, a volatile chemical, can pose health risks if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that prolonged exposure to high concentrations of styrene can lead to symptoms like tiredness, slowed reaction times, concentration problems, and balance issues.
Ongoing Efforts to Contain the Leak
As of Tuesday evening, officials were working to contain the leak and assess the situation. The Central Railroad of Indiana spokesperson stated that the company was fully cooperating with first responders and working to contain the incident as safely and efficiently as possible.
Return to Normalcy
Once the leak is contained and the situation is deemed safe, residents will be allowed to return to their homes. The Hamilton County EMA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the public.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by hazardous materials and the importance of following emergency instructions during such events.
Lessons Learned
The incident in Cleves underscores the need for robust safety protocols and emergency response plans in the transportation and handling of hazardous materials. This incident also highlights the importance of public awareness and understanding of the risks associated with such materials. While the incident in Cleves did not result in any major injuries, it serves as a timely reminder of the need for preparedness and swift action in the event of similar situations.
