Residents Return After Styrene Leak in Cincinnati Prompts Evacuations, School Closures

CLEVES, Ohio — Evacuations have been lifted in Cleves, a suburb of Cincinnati, following a chemical leak that led to widespread emergency response measures. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a railcar leaking styrene, a toxic and flammable chemical commonly used in manufacturing plastic and rubber products. The leak led authorities to evacuate around 210 homes within a half-mile radius and close local schools as a precaution.

Officials reported that the leak occurred at a rail yard near State Route 128 and U.S. Route 50. The source of the leak was identified as a pressure release valve on the railcar. Hazmat teams and firefighters were dispatched to contain the situation, working to stabilize the railcar and ensure that the risk of an explosion was minimized. Emergency responders used water to cool down the railcar while sealing the valve to prevent further leakage.

Due to the potential health risks associated with styrene exposure, including headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues, residents were asked to evacuate their homes, and those outside the immediate evacuation area were advised to stay indoors and close windows. Air and water quality tests were conducted throughout the day on Wednesday to assess any potential environmental impacts.

By Wednesday evening, the evacuation orders were lifted after officials determined that there were no ongoing concerns related to air or water quality. Local authorities stated that the water remained safe to drink, and while no health issues were reported, residents were advised to clean surfaces in their homes and dispose of any food that may have been exposed during the leak.

The railcar, which had been leaking, was moved a short distance away once the leak was contained. The cause of the incident was attributed to an ineffective stabilizer additive inside the railcar, which allowed the styrene to vent. Federal regulators are expected to investigate the incident further and release additional findings in the coming days.

Schools in the Three Rivers Local School District were closed on Wednesday as a safety measure. Inspections of school facilities were conducted to ensure there was no contamination before classes resume on Thursday. Nearby businesses, including a local grocery store, were also temporarily shut down as part of the emergency response efforts.

The situation in Cleves is the latest in a series of chemical-related incidents in Ohio. Earlier this year, a major train derailment in East Palestine, about 300 miles northeast of Cincinnati, resulted in hazardous chemical spills and increased scrutiny of rail safety regulations across the state. Federal officials, including personnel from the Federal Railroad Administration, have been involved in monitoring both incidents.

For residents who may still have concerns about potential contamination, local authorities have set up a hotline and a representative from the Central Railroad of Indiana at the Cleves Community Center to offer assistance. Residents can also call a local number for additional guidance or to request property inspections.

The emergency response in Cleves has now shifted from containment to long-term safety monitoring, with officials continuing to assess the situation and provide updates to the community.

Additional news coverage on this, from other local networks, can be found at the following sources:

1. MSN News, "Styrene leak near Cincinnati is yet another toxic chemical spill in Ohio. Here are more," published on September 24, 2024. Available online.

2. CNN, "Residents of Ohio community allowed to return after chemical leak from railroad car forced evacuations," published on September 24, 2024. Available online.

3. Hoodline, "Evacuation and School Closures Persist in Cleves and Whitewater Township After Styrene Spill from Railroad Tanker," published on September 24, 2024. Available online.