Residents Of East Palestine Return Home And Express Concerns

Some residents say they have developed rashes, sore throats, nausea, and headaches. They expressed their worries that these new symptoms have occurred due to the chemicals released.

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio, were approved to return to their homes after the evacuation order was lifted.

On February 3rd, a Norfolk Southern Railway train carrying hazardous materials derailed and the village as well as areas several miles from the derailment were ordered to evacuate until officials could tackle clean up efforts.

In attempt to a prevent a potentially deadly explosion, toxic vinyl chloride gas was vented and burned.

On February 8th, residents were given the all-clear to return to their homes. Since then, some residents say they have developed rashes, sore throats, nausea, and headaches. They expressed their worries that these new symptoms have occurred due to the chemicals released.

Officials said that further testing of indoor air in nearly 500 homes has not shown any hazards. Tests of tap water from the municipal system did not reveal any chemicals at levels that would pose a health risk and tests are currently still underway.

The Ohio Department of Health is helping bring a health assessment clinic to East Palestine residents starting this week to assist those with questions and concerns regarding the health impacts of the derailment.