Several train cars lie sideways after derailing in the Bywater area of New Orleans on Wednesday, July 6, 2016. (Photo by Chris Granger, Nola.com | The Times-Picayune)
Chris Granger, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
By Carlie Kollath Wells, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
on July 06, 2016 at 6:38 AM, updated July 06, 2016 at 10:51 AM
A train has derailed in the Bywater area, blocking several intersections of Press Street, authorities said at 6:15 a.m. Wednesday (July 6). No injuries have been reported.
The first eight railcars of a 140-car train derailed near the intersection of Press Street and Burgundy Street, according to the New Orleans Fire Department. The following intersections are closed until further notice:
• Press at Chartres
• Press at Royal
• Press at Dauphine
• Press at Burgundy
• Press at St. Claude
NOPD urges drivers to take Claiborne Avenue or alternate routes.
A train has derailed in the Bywater area, blocking several intersections of Press Street, authorities said at 6:15 a.m. Wednesday (July 6). No injuries have been reported. (Image via Google Maps)Carlie Kollath Wells, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
NOFD said six of the cars that derailed were empty and the remaining two were empty but had asphalt residue inside.
"None of the cars have been punctured and there are no leaks," NOFD said in a statement.
Its hazardous material unit has taken air samples as a precaution. The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad has crews enroute to upright the cars, but there was no immediate word when the intersections would reopen.