Evacuations ordered after train derailment in rural Tennessee

Evacuations have been ordered in part of Morgan County, Tennessee, after several train cars carrying ethanol derailed in a rural area and sparked a fire, according to local officials and media reports. No injuries have been reported.

The derailment happened in the Lancing area, according to Morgan County E-911, which said emergency crews were on scene and evaluating the situation. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) said it was supporting county officials and had a district coordinator at the scene.

Morgan County officials ordered evacuations for several nearby roads as a precaution, including parts of Emory Heights, Homestead, Broken Antler, Lazy Bear, Shady Grove and Thomas Drive.

An evacuation center has been opened at Central High School, according to TEMA. Residents were told to follow local guidance, monitor updates from Morgan County officials and avoid the affected area so emergency crews can respond safely.

A Norfolk Southern representative told WVLT that the train was carrying ethanol but said there was no danger to the public. Morgan County Sheriff Rick Hamby told the station that the rural location was making the response difficult, including access to the derailment site.

Officials believe four or five train cars derailed. No injuries have been reported.