Derailed Tanker Explodes, Forcing Thousands to Flee for Second Time
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MIAMISBURG, Ohio — A derailed railroad tank car exploded during salvage efforts Wednesday evening, spreading a cloud of poisonous fumes that injured at least 58 people and forced thousands of residents to flee for the second time in two days.
The explosion occurred shortly after 6 p.m. as firefighters tried to put out white phosphorus that had smoldered all day in the tanker. In addition, a nearby tank car carrying sulfur was burning, officials said. No firefighters were injured.
Henry Guzman, a governor’s aide who has been assisting Miamisburg officials, estimated that as many as 25,000 people had fled their homes. Spokesmen at four hospitals said that none of 58 people treated required hospitalization. Most were treated for shortness of breath, irritated eyes and sore throats.
Contained With Water
Firefighters planned to let the fire burn itself out while keeping it contained with water, said Miamisburg fire Capt. Dennis Lutz. But Lutz said he did not know how long that would take.
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