A chemical gas leak from a rail tanker near Cincinnati prompted fears of an explosion and led to evacuation orders for roughly 210 households in Whitewater Township, located about 22 miles west-northwest of the city. The gas was identified as styrene, a compound used in the production of plastic, rubber, and fiberglass. The leak was reported to authorities around 1 p.m. and firefighters were trying to prevent an explosion by cooling the tank with water.
Styrene can irritate the respiratory system, cause headaches, and disorientation, with long-term exposure linked to certain forms of cancer. Environmental officials were monitoring the community for any health impacts from the leak. Some residents may have sought treatment for health issues, but specific details were not confirmed.
Public schools in the area closed early and canceled activities as a precaution. State Route 128 and U.S. Route 50 were closed in both directions near the incident site. The ownership of the rail car and its cargo was not immediately clear, but Central Railroad of Indiana stated it was cooperating with responders.
Officials expected the situation to remain stable overnight as they awaited guidance from environmental agencies. The community was urged to stay informed and follow shelter-in-place recommendations. The incident highlighted the potential risks associated with chemical transportation and the importance of coordinated emergency response efforts.
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