HARRISBURG, PA  — A year of sampling found no evidence of water or soil contamination related to the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment in Pennsylvania’s private water wells, surface water, and soil, said the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

In addition, monitoring wells indicate that groundwater on the Pennsylvania border is flowing toward Ohio and away from Pennsylvania. 

The sampling was conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and its independent contractor. The full interim summary report can be found on DEP’s webpage on the derailment along with an interactive mapping tool of sampling conducted to date.

At approximately 8:55 p.m. on February 3, 2023, 38 cars of a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, and other combustible liquid derailed. Several rail cars burned for more than two days, releasing dangerous toxins into the air and precipitating the evacuation of all residents living with one mile of the accident.

Governor Josh Shapiro outlined Pennsylvania’s response, including efforts he directed state agencies to take immediately following the derailment and since. The Shapiro Administration said it will continue to work with local, state, and federal partners.