Train Derailment Update: US 70 closed for next 24 hours at East Fleming/East Union intersection

Just as things were seemingly getting back to normal after a soaking rain courtesy of Hurricane Isaias, Tuesday brought another surprise: a train derailment.

Five cars came off the track as the train made its way through Morganton, not far from the Food Lion on U.S. 70. The highway was closed between East Fleming Drive and East Union Street for more than 48 hours as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate what led to the derailment.

One person was transported to the hospital with minor injuries, according to Morganton officials.

No hazardous material spilled from this incident and no evacuation orders were necessary.

Assisting agencies Burke County Emergency Management and Burke County EMS. Triple Community Fire Department reports that its Squad 1 covered Morganton Fire Station 3 while crews continued operations at the site of the derailment.

The City of Morganton led the initial response and Norfolk Southern is now the lead agency on the derailment investigation. The cause of the derailment is still unknown and the investigation is active.

— AKC