State of emergency declared in Kentucky town after chemical spill from derailed train, Gov orders immediate evacuation

Kentucky town urged to evacuate after train derails, spilling chemicals

Published on: Nov 23, 2023, 11:57:31 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency in Rockcastle County after a multi-car train derailed on Wednesday that his office said resulted in a chemical spill.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency in Rockcastle County (Representative Image) (Getty Images)

Governor’s office posted on X (formally known as Twitter) that at least one home was evacuated, with teams working to evacuate more.

"By issuing a state of emergency, we are ensuring that every state resource is available to help keep our families safe," the governor said in a statement. "Please stay clear of this area as state, local and CSX officials respond." He urged people to avoid the area to allow state and local officials to respond.

A train carrying hazardous material derailed and spilled chemicals in a remote part of eastern Kentucky on Wednesday, prompting officials to encourage residents of a small town to evacuate.

Gov. Andy Beshear has asked residents of Livingston, with a population of about 200, to evacuate immediately. Local reports suggest that a shelter has been opened at a local middle school.

At least 15 cars derailed in Rockcastle County, including two that spilled sulfur, railroad operator CSX told WKYT-TV. One crew member was treated at the scene for minor injuries. Authorities have not revealed what was there in the train.

It was not immediately clear how extensive the spill was or what impact it might have on the environment in the remote area. The sheriff and local judge executive didn't immediately respond to emails seeking further comment, nor did CSX.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.