Derailed train hauling chlorine prompts evacuation near SAU
Posted on Sunday, April 20, 2008
MAGNOLIA — A train hauling chlorine derailed Friday morning near Southern Arkansas University, leading authorities to evacuate the campus and nearby residents.
No one was injured, and no chlorine leaked, said Larry Taylor, director of the Columbia County emergency management office. But the threat of a chlorine leak during the cleanup late Friday afternoon prompted officials to clear the area as a precaution.
Officials estimated the evacuation involved 300 to 400 people, and it was unclear when they would be able to return. Several temporary shelters were opened in town, Taylor said, and students were being sent to nearby churches.
Two nearby plants also sent employees home early after the derailment.
A break in part of the railroad track caused the train, owned by Louisiana & North West Railroad, to derail near West University Avenue and Shanhouse Drive.
Five tanker cars each carrying 17, 000 gallons of chlorine derailed. Three were knocked on their sides.
The train was bound for the Albermarle Corp. plant outside Magnolia. The plant makes cleaning products and other items that use chlorine.
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