UPDATE 5:55 p.m.
A Union Pacific railyard west of North Platte, Nebraska was the scene of a dramatic railcar fire on Thursday.
The fire evoked images of the East Palestine derailment and fire, but authorities say the effects of the fire have been contained to a small area.
Here's what we know from the fire North Platte Volunteer Fire Department and Union Pacific:
North Platte Volunteer Fire Department units were notified at 12:03 p.m. of an explosion west of North Platte at Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yards. They found heavy smoke and fire on arrival. A local hazmat team was also on the scene.
The fire department contacted Union Pacific to identify what chemical was on the train car, and then, contacted the manufacturer for guidance. The chemical was identified as perchloric acid.
The use of the acid includes food, drugs, disinfectants and explosives. It is also dangerous if ingested or inhaled, according to authorities.
Fire crews are still on the scene to monitor and contain the area. A four-mile evacuation was ordered as a precaution. The evacuation zone is a rural area and they do not anticipate nor has this affected a populated area.
According to an email from Union Pacific, as of 5:15 p.m., the fire was out and normal rail operations were beginning to resume in North Platte.
No injuries have been reported. No cause is known at this time.
A hotline is available for those impacted with immediate needs. They can call 877-877-2567, Option 1.
PREVIOUS
According to a social media post, North Platte Fire & Hazmat are still on scene but the incident is contained at this time.
They are monitoring the situation and the weather, adjusting their tactics and evacuations to keep responders and citizens safe.
Update on Railcar Fire. NP Fire & Hazmat are on scene with UPRR. The incident is contained at this time. They are monitoring the situation and the weather, adjusting their tactics and evacuations to keep responders and citizens safe. Stay alert to any changes that may come.
— North Platte VFD (@NPVFD69101) September 14, 2023
PREVIOUS
The North Platte Volunteer Fire Department is battling a blaze north of a railroad track that is producing "toxic smoke."
According to a social media post, there was an explosion at Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yards near North Platte and Hershey at approximately 12:10 p.m.
The Nebraska State Patrol is asking that anyone located between Front Road and Splinter Road, from Highway 30 to 1 mile north, to evacuate the area.
Highway 30 is also closed in the area at this time. I-80 is not affected.
Emergency evacuation for the area between splinter and front North of railroad track due fire at the railroad involving heavy toxic smoke
— North Platte VFD (@NPVFD69101) September 14, 2023
Explosion at Union Pacific Railroad Bailey Yards at approximately 12:10 pm. #hazmat #Northplatte #Nebraska pic.twitter.com/zxJWkw2BE5
Download our apps today for all of our latest coverage.
Get the latest news and weather delivered straight to your inbox.
