derailment happened on February 3, 2023, at 8:55 p.m. It involved 38 railcars carrying hazardous
materials that derailed and burned for more than two days, with emergency crews then conducting a
controlled burn that released hydrogen chloride and phosgene into the air. As a result, residents
within a 1-mile radius were evacuated, and an emergency response was initiated from agencies in
Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Not only is this a disaster for the people of East Palestine, it has also become a political issue. As
outlined in this Time article, it wasn't until former President Trump visited the site that Sec.
Buttigieg followed. President Biden still has not visited, which is becoming a talking point that may
impact his run for a second term.
Article:
https://time.com/6257945/pete-buttigieg-east-palestine-ohio-train/
Fig: 1