A senior hazmat investigator from the National Transportation Safety Board conducted an inspection of the cargo and cargo manifest, revealing the presence of 56 containers of hazardous material, as announced by agency Chair Jennifer Homendy on Wednesday. The investigator successfully identified a total of 764 tons of hazardous materials, predominantly consisting of corrosives, flammables, and various other hazardous materials, including class nine hazardous materials such as lithium ion batteries.
During the examination, it was noted that some of the hazmat containers had been compromised, leading to potential leaks. Additionally, a sheen was observed on the waterway, indicating a spill or contamination of the surrounding environment.
The discovery of such a significant quantity of hazardous materials raises concerns about the potential environmental and safety risks associated with the incident. The presence of corrosives, flammables, and lithium ion batteries underscores the importance of proper handling and transportation protocols for hazardous materials to prevent accidents and minimize the impact on public health and the environment.
Efforts to contain and mitigate any further spread of the hazardous materials are likely underway, with authorities working to assess the extent of the breach and implement appropriate response measures. The investigation into the cause of the breach and the circumstances surrounding the incident is expected to continue as officials work to ensure the safety and well-being of the community and the environment.
