Chemical Transportation Incidents – Week of 5-30-26

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. 

Incidents Summary  

• Number of incidents – 498 (459 highway, 35 air, 4 rail, 0 water) 

• Serious incidents – 9 (8 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 0 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 5 fire/explosion, 37no release)  

• Largest container involved – 30,300-gal DOT 117R100W Railcar {Fuel, Aviation, Turbine Engine} BOV ball valve leaking, cap not tool tight. 

• Largest amount spilled – 38,693-lbs Railcar {Lithium Ion Batteries Including Lithium Ion Polymer Batteries} Railcar fire in transit, cause not determined. 

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 4972.2-gal (excludes lithium battery fire) 

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Fuel, Aviation, Turbine Engine: A clear colorless to variable colored liquid with a petroleum-like odor. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence, floats on water. Vapors are heavier than air. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).