Train carrying hazardous materials derails in Meeker Co., no leaks reported

Train carrying hazardous material derails [RAW]

SkyFOX over the scene of a train derailment in Meeker County, located west of the Twin Cities. Approximately 18 cars derailed, some of which were carrying hazardous materials. No leaks were reported.

WATKINS, Minn. (FOX 9) - A train derailment near Watkins, Minnesota, on Thursday night involved some cars carrying hazardous materials, though officials say no leaks have been detected. 

Train derailment

What we know:

The Meeker County Sheriff’s Office said it received a report of a train derailment just after 7:20 p.m. in the 66000 block of Meeker and Stearns Street, about a mile west of Watkins. 

The derailment involved approximately 18 rail cars, some of which were carrying hazardous materials including octane and asphalt. Other cars carried lumber and fertilizer pellets, a Canadian Pacific Kansas City spokesperson told FOX 9. 

Officials said there are no reported leaks from hazmat cars. Additionally, no injuries have been reported and there is not an immediate threat to the public.

"CPKC crews are on site and have been working through the night on the clean-up," the spokesperson said. 

Road closures

Dig deeper:

The train derailment caused some road closures in the area. Drivers will have to find alternative routes. 

The sheriff's office said the following roads are closed until further notice:

• Meeker Stearns Street between 647th and 667th
• 667th from just north of the Glenshire Addition to Meeker Stearns Street.
• 395th Street (Watkins 4th Street North) from the Watkins City Limits to 667th Street.

What we don't know:

It's unclear how long the cleanup process will take, or when the roads will be reopened.

CPKC officials did not say how many hazmat cars were among the 18 derailed cars. 

The cause of the derailment is still being investigated.