Freight Train Derailment in Czech Republic Triggers Massive Chemical Fire

A freight train derailed in eastern Czech Republic on Friday, igniting a large chemical fire that sent dense black smoke soaring into the sky. The accident took place near the Hustopeče nad Bečvou train station around midday local time (1100 GMT), when multiple tank wagons carrying the hazardous chemical benzene were damaged and caught fire, according to a report by the Associated Press (AP).

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, working to extinguish the flames engulfing 15 of the 17 affected tankers. Each tanker contained roughly 60 metric tons (66 tons) of benzene, a highly flammable compound widely used in chemical production. Firefighters utilized a helicopter to aid in controlling the blaze, while additional reinforcements from Slovakia were called in to assist with containment efforts.

Despite the intensity of the fire, no casualties have been reported. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment. Although the nearest residential area, approximately 500 meters away, remained unaffected by the smoke, residents were advised to take precautionary measures.

Local officials urged residents of Hustopeče nad Bečvou and nearby areas to remain indoors and keep their windows shut to minimize exposure to potential airborne pollutants.

Initial reports mistakenly identified the leaked substance as benzol, but authorities later confirmed it to be benzene, according to AP. Fortunately, air quality assessments have not indicated any hazardous levels of toxic chemicals exceeding safety thresholds.

The towering plumes of smoke visible from miles away have raised concerns over possible environmental and health risks. As firefighters work to completely extinguish the blaze, investigators are prioritizing uncovering the cause of the derailment and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Photo credit: Hasičský záchranný sbor ČR.
Video credit: Policie České republiky & TVP World.
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