Train Derails In Mecca
Authorities in Riverside County worked today to clear then scene of a freight train derailment that sparked a fire near the town of Mecca and released toxic fumes into the air, causing no injuries but prompting the evacuation of scores of residents.
No injuries were reported in the incident, which occurred about 8:45 last night, said James Barnes of Union Pacific. Twenty-nine cars of the 65-car train derailed near Highway 111, which remained closed this morning in the area near the derailment site.
Barnes said one of the derailed tanker cars was carrying phosphoric acid, some of which leaked, and the other tanker car carried hydrochloric acid, some of which was somehow released as well.
Hydrochloric acid is used to produce chlorides, fertilizers, and dyes and can harm the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. Phosphoric acid is a milder acid used to remove rust and treat steel surfaces prior to painting.
The rail cars did not catch fire, but some of the wooden railroad ties ignited, probably because of friction from the derailment, Barnes said.
Some evacuees were housed at Coachella Valley High School, 83800 Airport
Blvd., officials said.
Barnes said the train was going from Colton to El Centro when the derailment occurred. About 2,000 feet of track was damaged, and about two dozen trains will have to be re-routed, he said.
Public safety personnel set up a unified command structure to coordinate the response by local, state, federal, and private agencies.
The cause of the derailment was under investigation.
