Evacuations Ordered in Pennsylvania After 40-car Train Derails: Officials

A Norfolk Southern freight train derailment in Pennsylvania has forced the evacuation of the town of Whitemarsh Township, officials said Monday.

The derailment took place at around 5 a.m. ET on Monday in the township, officials told local media. The train was carrying silicone pellets and other materials, police said.

“As of now, the only thing that is leaking from any of the rail cars involved, is silicone pellets which pose no risk to the community,” said the department in a Facebook post. “We are still gathering information at this time and ask you to follow us here for any important factual updates. We thank all the community partners and resources that are working with us on scene ensuring the safety of our community.”

However, other reports indicated that it was not immediately known what was inside them. Hazmat teams were seen at the site, although it is not clear if any substances were leaking from the cars, reported The Associated Press.