Authorities in Nebraska have enforced an emergency evacuation order covering a four-mile radius after a train carrying deadly chemicals exploded.
The explosion occurred in the Union Pacific Railroad’s Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska.
The train car was reportedly carrying the hazardous chemical perchloric acid when it exploded, according to the Daily Mail.
The North Platte Volunteer Fire Department issued an urgent evacuation notice and posted an emergency alert on social media.
“Emergency evacuation for the area between Splinter and Front North of railroad track due [to] fire at the railroad involving heavy toxic smoke,” the alert warns.
According to the post, the explosion happened at the rail yard.
Emergency evacuation for the area between splinter and front North of railroad track due fire at the railroad involving heavy toxic smoke
Explosion at Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yards at approximately 12:10 pm. #hazmat #Northplatte #Nebraska pic.twitter.com/zxJWkw2BE5
— North Platte VFD (@NPVFD69101) September 14, 2023
A follow-up alert warned that additional residences should prepare for evacuation due to changing wind and weather conditions.
HOUSES BETWEEN HOMESTEAD AND FRONT, AND BETWEEN HWY 30 AND WEST A , BE PREPARED TO EVACUATED IN THE NEXT ONE TO TWO HOURS DUE