The compound is flammable, according to authorities on the scene, but not dangerous.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The overturned train tanks in Gregory are carrying vinyl chloride, Texas Department of Public Safety Public Information Sgt. Harold “Rob” Mallory told 3NEWS on Monday.
Vinyl chloride is the primary ingredient in making PVC pipes.
The compound has not leaked or spilled from the tanks, and according to Mallory it is not dangerous.
However, crews are still working to clear the train derailment that closed frontage roads under State Highway 181 on Monday afternoon.
San Patricio County Oscar Rivera said four loaded tank cars derailed under the Hwy. 181 underpass and that drivers in the area should use caution because the material is flammable.
Mallory stated in a news release that other closures and diversions have taken place in the area, including:
- State Hwy. 181 in Gregory, between Sunset and Spur 202.
- Traffic coming southbound from the Taft area will be diverted from 181 to County Road 3667 to County Road 1612 and then on to Farm-to-Market 2986.
- Traffic eastbound from Portland will be able to move over to State Highway 35.
- Traffic traveling northbound to Taft/Sinton will need to exit Buddy Ganem and take FM 2986 to CR 1612.
Mallory said 181 between Sunset and Spur 202 will be closed for the next 7-8 hours as crews unload the overturned tanks and get them back on track.
Trucks from Enviroserve, an environmental field services and decontamination company, have shown up at the scene.
Dawson’s Recycling and Disposal Company employees tell 3NEWS they were made to evacuate after the accident.
This is a developing story. 3NEWS has crews on the way and will provide updates as they become available.
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