Kentucky freight train carrying molten sulfur derails, leaks hazardous chemical in Todd County

Aerial images show derailed freight cars against one another along the tracks in rural Kentucky, with several cars tipped onto their sides and debris scattered across nearby fields.

One car spilled molten sulfur, which is sulfur heated to a liquid state and commonly used in industrial applications, such as fertilizer production. Molten sulfur can cause severe thermal burns and release irritating gases such as sulfur dioxide or hydrogen sulfide if disturbed, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

It was unclear how many cars made up the entire train, though many remained on the tracks and were not derailed.

Multiple towns and state emergency management officials responded to the scene. No homes were immediately affected.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed a shelter-in-place order was issued for the city of Trenton.

He advised residents to follow local guidance and take precautions to stay safe.

"More information will be shared as available for those in the surrounding area," he posted on X.