By: Alyssa Hong

A train carrying potentially harmful material derailed from its tracks on June 24th, Saturday Four of them were carrying hot asphalt and another three were carrying molten sulfur. If these interred the river, it could pollute the river and drinking water of Yellowstone

Two other railcars were carrying sodium hydrosulfate, a corrosive substance. Officials have not revealed whether the derailment caused the collapse of the bridge or if the collapse of the bridge caused the derailment.

Fortunately, the sodium hydrosulfate did not enter the river. “The safety of our employees and the public remains our top priority,” MRL said. “We are committed to addressing any potential impacts to the area as a result of this incident and working to understand the reasons behind the accident.”

MRL said the accident happened around 6:45 a.m. local time while the train was heading west-bound, towards Reeds Point. Local residents said that the river was running high after an immense amount of rainfall, including a storm the evening before. “It’s completely muddy, so it’s bringing a lot of material down with it,” said John Counter “It’s running full banks right now.”

Thankfully, there is no immediate threat to the local residents of Yellowstone. “All of our water comes through the river for our wells and our irrigation and everything,” Couch said. “So it gets a little concerning when you have toxic stuff coming into your wells.” Cleanup is currently underway.