Massive Train Derailment Sparks Evacuations Near New Mexico State Line, Some with Propane Cargo
A train carrying thirty-five rail cars derailed near New Mexico, leading to evacuations and the closure of a 50-mile section of Interstate 40. Stay updated on the unfolding situation.
Thirty-five rail cars of a train derailed in New Mexico on Friday afternoon, leading to evacuations and the closure of a 50-mile section of Interstate 40.
McKinley County Fire & Rescue received a call around 12:40 p.m. on Friday after the train derailed and caught fire near the state line. Six of the derailed train cars were transporting propane, as reported by BNSF Railway.
Evacuation orders are still in effect for residents living within a two-mile radius of the derailment and fire near the New Mexico state line with Arizona, as stated in an update from BNSF Railway.
BNSF also mentioned that Interstate 40 is closed in both directions and traffic is being diverted. New Mexico State Police mentioned on Facebook that there is no estimated time for when the closure will be lifted.
A team from the National Transportation Safety Board is scheduled to arrive later on Saturday. When they get there, they will begin by documenting the scene and inspecting the train and equipment that were part of the derailment, according to the NTSB.
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BNSF is continuing to conduct air monitoring and fire suppression assessments at the site. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries. The company is also actively assisting the residents who have been displaced by the evacuations, ensuring they have the necessary lodging and accommodations.
BNSF, along with other local public safety agencies, is dedicated to collaborating under Unified Command to prioritize the safety and well-being of the community during the incident.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg took to social media to address the extensive derailment, emphasizing the importance of coordination among state, Tribal, and local agencies to guarantee safety in the area. He also advised following state and local directives for detour information around I-40.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs expressed her concern about the train derailment near the Arizona-New Mexico border on social media. She mentioned that she is closely monitoring the situation and that her administration is in communication with Secretary Buttigieg and the New Mexican government. Governor Hobbs also stated that Arizona is prepared to provide any resources needed to ensure the safety of the communities affected.
Editor's P/S:
The train derailment in New Mexico is a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by hazardous materials being transported by rail. The fact that six cars carrying propane were involved is particularly concerning, as propane is a highly flammable gas. While there have been no reported injuries at this time, the evacuations and closure of Interstate 40 indicate the severity of the situation. It is imperative that all necessary precautions are taken to ensure the safety of the community and environment.
The investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board will hopefully shed light on the cause of the derailment and identify any systemic issues that need to be addressed. It is also crucial that BNSF, the railroad operator, takes full responsibility for the incident and provides assistance to those affected, including displaced residents and impacted businesses. The coordination among state, Tribal, and local agencies, as well as the support from the federal government, is essential for managing the response and recovery efforts effectively. The public should stay informed by following official updates and adhering to safety guidelines to minimize any potential risks.
