Freight train derails in Illinois prompting evacuation for residents

Freight train derails in Illinois prompting evacuation for residents

An Illinois town was forced to evacuate after a freight train derailed causing a leak from the cars.

The Canadian National Railway train derailed in the village of Matteson around 10:30 a.m., WGN-TV reported.

The railway company issued a statement about 1:30 p.m. saying that about 25 cars derailed.

There were no reports of fires or injuries although one car containing residue liquified petroleum gas leaked, the company said.

Authorities ordered residents within a mile to evacuate and prepare for a 'long-term evacuation', and to take medication and supplies with them.

Shortly after, the railway company said that the leak had been contained and the evacuation order was lifted except for properties immediately adjacent to the site.

Liquified petroleum gas is a colorless, odorless, flammable gas used as fuel for heating and cooking appliances.

Inhalation can cause drowsiness and respiratory irritation, according to the Chemscape website.

Long-term exposure can cause nerve damage, nosebleeds, weight loss and fatigue.

The gas is prone to oily residues that can be corrosive, according to The Analytical Scientist website.

Matteson spokesperson told the Chicago Tribunethat responders had noticed a white powdery substance leaking from one of the cars.

Due to many of the cars carrying chemicals, officials ordered an evacuation as a precaution.

He told the outlet: 'It was very precautionary because we were dealing with something that we couldn’t take a chance on, given the recent reports of derailments and powdery substances that have led to fires.'

Metra trains were halted through the area due to the evacuation order, but service on the Electric Line has since resumed.