Firefighters deal with a large toxic train

A freight train, carrying the highly toxic chemical benzene, has derailed in the Czech Republic, causing a huge fire.

Several tankers and locomotive were lit, with firefighters from several regions and a mobile chemical laboratory located in the area, according to local media. A massive cloud of thick black smoke was visible for a few kilometers.

Railways say no one was injured in the incident, which became close to Hustopeče Nad Bečvou, 50 km (31 miles) southwest of the Polish border, on Friday.

Benzole, which is a substance that causes cancer for humans, is an element present in the fuel of the aircraft.

The train “split” and subsequently derailed, according to initial reports. A nearby electric substation also ignited, killing the power of the nearby city of Hustoper.

The flames up to 20 m high were visible when the fire broke out, an eyewitness said to the newspaper Lidove Noviny.

Dramatic footage of drones from the scene released from the Czech fire service shows some poorly charred and destroyed tankers – some still burn as thick black smoke is absorbed into the sky.

Firefighters used heavy foam to prevent the spread of fire further while other tankers were removed to prevent more explosions.

There is also a helicopter as well as a special mobile laboratory for chemical monitoring. It took a few hours to mislead the fire, employees said.

The fire affected about 15 of the 17 tanks for benzene that the train transported, a fire service spokesman told local media.

“The substance must be the same in all tankers, the quantity will be determined, but it is approximately 60 tonnes in a tanker. However, this does not mean that everything will burn or run out,” said Lucy Balazha.

Locals have been told to stay indoors rather than open windows or doors. Officials say that air quality “has not yet exceeded” pollution restrictions, according to Czech News Website Idnes.

Police say he will investigate the cause of derailment.

Benzole is a colorless or light yellow liquid with a sweet odor that can evaporate very quickly. It is used in common substances such as plastic, resin, nylon and some forms of dyes, pesticides or cleaners. It is very flammable.

Exposure to benzene by breathing or ingestion can cause symptoms such as drowsiness, dizziness, tremor, vomiting or insomnia.

Very high levels of exposure can lead to unconsciousness or death, According to the CDCS Long -term exposure a year or more can cause blood, bone or immune system problems.