A major emergency response was triggered in South Carolina on Saturday morning after a freight train derailed, sparking immediate fears of a dangerous chemical spill and prompting officials to order residents to shelter in place.
Derailment Triggers Major Emergency Response
The incident occurred at approximately 9.50am local time at 2450 West 5th North Street, the local designation for US Highway 78, close to the KION North America plant in Summerville. Several cars from a Norfolk Southern freight train left the tracks, initiating a large-scale hazmat alert.
Authorities swiftly closed a section of Highway 78 between Jedburg Road and Industrial Road. The primary concern centred on one of the derailed tank cars, which was initially identified as a vessel designed to carry chlorobenzene. This flammable industrial chemical is described as a colourless liquid with an almond-like odour and can be harmful if inhaled, potentially affecting the central nervous system and respiratory tract.
Public Warning and Shelter Order Issued
As a precaution, a shelter-in-place order was issued for all residents and businesses within a 1.5-mile radius of the derailment site. State Senator Tom Fernandez took to Facebook to warn the community, stating that anyone who smelled a chlorine scent "like a pool" should get indoors immediately and call 911, especially if experiencing coughing, chest tightness, or burning eyes.
Hazmat teams from Norfolk Southern and multiple surrounding agencies rushed to the scene to assess the situation and the potential risk of an airborne chemical release.
All-Clear Given After Tank Car Found Empty
The situation was dramatically downgraded later in the day after investigators made a crucial discovery. Authorities confirmed that the tank car suspected of carrying chlorobenzene was empty at the time of the derailment and that no chemical leak had occurred.
Dorchester County Fire Chief Tres Atkinson addressed the public, stating, "We have determined that there's no immediate danger to the public other than immediate areas that we'll be working to mitigate the cars that have come off the track." Consequently, the shelter-in-place order was lifted at around 2.15pm.
Cleanup and Investigation Continue
While the immediate chemical threat was ruled out, the aftermath of the derailment continues to cause significant disruption. Officials urged the public to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Highway 78 is expected to remain closed overnight and into Sunday morning while Norfolk Southern crews conduct remediation work and clear the wreckage.
The cause of the derailment is now under investigation. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
