A chemical gas leak from a rail tanker in Whitewater Township, Ohio, near Cincinnati, triggered fears of an explosion and prompted the evacuation of roughly 210 households within at least a half-mile radius of the incident. The gas, identified as styrene, is used in the production of plastics, rubber, and other materials. By Wednesday morning, the railcar was no longer venting, and authorities continued to monitor air quality and test for safety. The leak can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and disorientation, according to the CDC, and poses a threat of explosion if the tank continues to heat up. Firefighters worked to cool the container using water. Environmental officials were assessing the impact of the leak in the community, and some residents sought treatment for ailments. Schools in the area canceled classes and activities. The ownership of the railcar and its cargo was unclear, but Central Railroad of Indiana was cooperating with responders. State Route 128 and U.S. Route 50 were shut down in both directions near the site. Officials expected the situation to remain stable overnight as they awaited guidance from environmental agencies on how to proceed.
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Officials are concerned that a chemical gas leak near Cincinnati could lead to an explosion.
