On February 3rd a Norfolk Southern train derailed causing a massive explosion near East Palestine, Ohio. The aftermath has caused residents to evacuate and is drastically affecting the surrounding environment.
According to Fox News, “Three days after the derailment, authorities decided to burn off the toxic gases to avoid an explosion, sending hydrogen chloride and phosgene, a toxic chemical used as a weapon in World War I, into the air. ”
Effects of the Train Derailment
The debris from the crash is the most obvious and immediate effect. However, it appears that the toxic chemicals that the train was carrying are affecting the atmosphere over the region. Additionally, vegetation and wildlife are being negatively affected. Reports are coming in of animals dying too.
Ohio Senator JD Vance expressed his concern, “I have heard alarming anecdotes about contaminated waterways and effects on wildlife. I encourage anyone with credible reports of environmental harms to contact my office….This is a complex environmental disaster with impacts that may be difficult to assess in the short term. Long-term study will be imperative.”
Praying for Ohio
The Bible promises in 2 Chronicles 7:14 that if the people of God “humble ourselves and pray and seek His face” that He will “hear from heaven, forgive our sin, and heal our land”. Our land needs healing after this devastating train derailment. Let’s pray for supernatural cleansing from the chemicals and health and healing for the people of Ohio and the environment that has been affected by this tragic accident.
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Reference: Fox News
Header image: WBNS 10TV [Drone video shows aftermath of Ohio train derailment, explosion]. YouTube, 8 February 2023, https://youtu.be/vZa0DeaAGkA
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