Overview

• Pollutants spread across 540,000 square miles, affecting areas from the Midwest to the Northeast and as far as southern Canada.
• High concentrations of chloride and elevated pH levels were found in precipitation samples.
• Researchers were surprised by the extensive geographical impact, including states like South Carolina and New England.
• Health effects reported by residents close to the derailment site include rashes, headaches, and nausea.
• The Environmental Protection Agency may conduct a multi-year investigation into the long-term health impacts.