Chemical Transportation Incidents – Week of 1-17-26

Reporting Background

See this post for explanation, with the most recent update here (removed from paywall).

Data from PHMSA’s online database of transportation related chemical incidents that have been reported to the agency.

NOTE: PHMSA resumed making their database publicly searchable on February 17^th, 2026.

Incidents Summary

• Number of incidents – 387 (349 highway, 36 air, 1 rail, 1 water)

• Serious incidents – 2 (0 Bulk release, 1 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 3 fire/explosion, 42 no release)

• Largest container involved – 4,378-gcf DOT 112J340W Railcar {Liquefied Petroleum Gas} Undescribed leak.

• Largest amount spilled – 55-gal Plastic Drum {Corrosive Liquids, N.O.S.} Other container fell on plastic drum.

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 676.2-gal

NOTE: Links above are to Form 5800.1 for the described incidents.

Most Interesting Chemical: Heptanes - Clear colorless liquids with a petroleum-like odor. Flash point 25°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).