Train Derailment Spills 2,800 Tons of Soda Ash in Idaho

AMERICAN FALLS, Idaho (AP) — Railroad crews are cleaning up 2,800 tons of soda ash after a freight train derailed in Idaho and spilled the chemical product.

KIFI-TV reports that Sheriff Jim Jeffries says 31 train cars derailed near American Falls Wednesday morning.

Soda ash can cause irritation to the eyes and lungs.

Union Pacific Rail Road crews are cleaning up the soda ash and clearing the wrecked rail cars. Both Union Pacific and Power County officials say they are not worried about potential contamination.

After cleaning, crews will check the tracks for any damage and reopen the rail as soon as possible. They expect this to take anywhere from 24 to 36 hours.