It was a normal day in East Palestine Ohio when suddenly tragedy struck. In the morning hours a devastating train crash that shook the city had occurred. A train had derailed and quickly burst into an enormous chemical fire. The fire left thick black smoke that covered several miles. In an attempt to contain and put out the fire to prevent further destruction, officials coated the fire in a toxic vinyl chloride. However, this attempt was unsuccessful and only fueled it. After the fire had successfully extinguished, many citizens had reported foul fumes, symptoms of rashes, sore throats, nausea, and burning eyes. 

After Officials evacuated residents of the town they were eventually given the “all clear” on February 8, 2023. Despite officials claiming it was safe to return, the residents still steered clear even after tests provided evidence of safe water, soil, and air. Though residents are still reluctant to come back due to all the chemicals and toxins that had been created after the devastating fire. Having been given this information, some residents returned to their homes only to find it was not in fact “all clear”. Residents who returned home were faced with acrid fumes, and the very same symptoms of chemical exposure. The residents had attempted to solve this problem by cleansing their homes, however the cleaning did not seem to help. The CDC eventually came down to investigate further. The organization had not found anything new. Despite these results, Ohio citizens’ nerves were not eased. Even the doctors, pharmacists, and teachers expressed their concern and disbelief of the supposed results. After some time, everyone finally came to a conclusion that these widespread symptoms are the result of chemical sensitivity. This means that they can likely feel the effects before monitors are able to detect them. The CDC is still currently testing the air, water, and soil and are working with healthcare providers to fix this issue.

With these events and the information given, I believe that these consistent symptoms are the result of chemical exposure. With that being said, the residents should not return home until it is without a doubt safe and chemical free. This entire incident gives off strong Chernobyl deja vu. In remembrance of the horrible past events worsening from the reluctance of providing full safety measures, it is imperative to take every precaution to avoid other tragedies. Although being a slightly disturbing article, I did find it fascinating. It is interesting how problems that plume from small events can be fixed over time with citizens gathering and voicing their concern. This tragic incident is an excellent example of how it takes a community to make change and better the society.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/17/health/ohio-derailment-rashes-health-impacts

Credits to Mady Roussin for editing.