Evacuations ordered after train derails, fire blazes in Dupo, Ill.

Photo credit Photo courtesy of KMOV

By NewsRadio 1120 KMOX

DUPO, Ill. (KMOX) — A train derailed in Dupo, Illinois Tuesday afternoon causing the nearby community to evacuate.

KMOX's Kevin Killeen reported from the scene.

Union Pacific issued the following statment in regards to the derailment:

"Around 12:45 p.m., a derailment occurred in Union Pacific's Dupo Yard near Carondelet Avenue between Main and Adams Road. Both crossings are closed.

"The train was being built for departure at the time of the derailment, which caused a tank car to catch fire. Initial information from the scene indicates that the tank car contains a flammable liquid called methyl isobutyl ketone. It is typically used as a solvent.

"Union Pacific has beenworking with area first responders to put out the fire as large black plumes of smoke filled the air in the surrounding communities."

Smoke was even seen above the Downtown St. Louis skyline.

Officials also gave the Dupo School District evacuation orders. Students and staff were transported to Columbia High School where parents must pick up their children, according to Dupo CUSD 196.

Around 5 p.m., St. Clair County Emergency Management Agency posted that all evacuation orders were lifted.

Photo credit Photo courtesy of KMOV