Crews work Wednesday morning to cleanup an ethanol spill following a train derailment in Ripley on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. (Image courtesy of Bryce Johnson)
RIPLY, NY – There’s been a train derailment in Chautauqua County.
Dozens of people were forced out of their homes in Ripley Tuesday night after a train derailment triggered an ethanol spill.
A statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo says 15 rail cars traveling on the Norfolk Southern line derailed near Shaver Street and Mechanic Street in Ripley at about 11:20 p.m.
“While there is no fire or reported injuries at this time, three rail cars carrying hazardous liquids, including ethanol were turned on their side, and one is confirmed to be leaking,” the governor said in his statement. “As a result, emergency response officials evacuated several homes in the immediate vicinity and instructed other nearby residents to stay inside while authorities continue to assess the situation.”
The cause of the derailment on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 remains under investigation. (Image courtesy of Bryce Johnson)
Hazmat teams are using foam equipment to contain the spill and working to patch the leaks.
“I have directed the state Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management, the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the Department of Environmental Conservation as well as foam equipment to assist in suppressing the spill and provide support to hazmat teams that will be working to patch the leak,” the governor said.
According to Time Warner Cable news, 45 homes in the area were evacuated as a precaution and other neighbors have been told to stay inside their homes. Ripley Central School is also closed today and all activities and events are canceled.
Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan will be providing a further update Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. at the Ripley Fire Hall, 15 S. State St. in Ripley. Horrigan will be joined by state and local officials.
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