Ohio Train Derailment Study Reveals Widespread Pollution

>

On February 3, 2023, a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in northeastern Ohio, leading to a controlled burn of hazardous materials to avert a catastrophic explosion. This incident resulted in a large black cloud that dispersed pollution across 16 states, covering an area of 540,000 square miles, or 14% of the U.S. land area. A study published in “Environmental Research Letters” revealed that the pollutants, which included vinyl chloride, rained down from South Carolina to Wisconsin and New England. The highest contamination levels were observed near the Canada-New York border. Although the pollutants dissipated within two to three weeks, the concentrations were unusually high compared to normal levels, posing potential risks to marine and plant life. Researchers also noted that the rain following the incident was more basic than usual due to metals emitted from the fire. Experts express concern over the long-term environmental impact of such events.