Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro have ordered an urgent evacuation for a one-mile by two-mile area surrounding East Palestine, including parts of Ohio and Pennsylvania. The order follows updated modeling from the Ohio National Guard and the U.S. Department of Defense conducted earlier today.
Five rail cars containing vinyl chloride are unstable and at high risk of explosion. Such an event could send deadly shrapnel and toxic fumes into the surrounding area. Norfolk Southern Railroad is preparing a controlled release of the chemicals around 3:30 p.m. today to prevent an uncontrolled blast.
This process will involve burning the contents of the rail cars releasing hazardous fumes. Inhaling these fumes could be fatal. Based on wind and weather patterns, residents in the red evacuation zone face a severe threat to life. Those in the yellow warning zone are at high risk of serious injuries, including lung damage and chemical burns.
In Ohio, the evacuation area includes eastern East Palestine: Parker, South Pleasant, BFI Access Road, Taggart Street, North Pleasant Road, Failor Road, and East Martin (east of Pleasant). Anyone needing help evacuating should call 330-457-0733 or 330-457-2455. The Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office has stated that individuals who refuse to evacuate while caring for children may face legal consequences.
In Pennsylvania, assistance is available by calling the State Police Beaver Station at 724-773-7400. Contact Beaver County Emergency Services at 724-775-0880 for general evacuation and shelter-in-place information.
Authorities believe most residents have already left the danger zone. Law enforcement in both states is now going door-to-door to confirm all individuals are evacuated before the chemical release begins. The burn is expected to last 1 to 3 hours, depending on how much vinyl chloride is present. Officials have not yet announced when it will be safe for residents to return, but updates will be provided once conditions are safe.
Mary Watson
