Ohio Train Derailment Brings Frightening Side Effects

By Julia Bevilacqua, 2025

Published 3/8/23

The tragic East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment has been all over the news for the past couple of weeks. When the train derailed on February 3rd, a massive fire resulted, expelling toxic cancer-causing chemical fumes through the air and the environment. Not only Ohio residents, but everyone keeping up with the disaster is asking, “what are the side effects of the chemicals, and is there long-term danger?” 

Shortly after the train derailed people in the East Palestine area started experiencing symptoms. This includes rashes, nausea, irritated eyes, and other symptoms, as well as a number of people being diagnosed with bronchitis. Citizens in the area are afraid of long-term illness as 11 hazardous chemicals, out of 20 hazardous chemicals being carried on the train, were involved in the crash.   

Although professionals conducted a controlled release of the chemicals, a big problem is the reaction that occurred in the initial fire. When this reaction occurred the makeup of the chemicals rearranged, potentially causing more dangerous chemicals. Scientists are not yet sure what the new chemicals are. Another concern is the chemicals reaching the human body, and while a lot of people are experiencing symptoms, scientists are unsure of many things still regarding the accident. Right now, more testing has to be done with air quality because of how frequently wind moves and changes. As far as drinking water goes, it has been proven safe in Ohio, and scientists have not detected a trace of the chemicals.  

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has been in Ohio collecting data from talking to people who live in East Palestine and the surrounding towns. Recently the CDC has been handing out flyers with QR codes that lead to a form asking about what area they live in and what side effects they may be experiencing. The CDC is expected to move into Pennsylvania for data and questioning in addition to focusing on the first responders who reported to the scene of the derailment.