Interstate 40 Reopens After Train Derailment Near Arizona-New Mexico State Line

On Saturday, April 27, the Interstate 40 was fully reopened following the controlled burn of remaining fuel from a freight train derailment near the Arizona-New Mexico state line. Fire Chief Lawrence Montoya Jr., of McKinley County, New Mexico, confirmed that earlier evacuation orders have been lifted and the situation is now under control. Chief Montoya also mentioned the presence of a hazmat team and well-trained firefighters at the site.

The BNSF Railway train derailment, which took place on Friday near Lupton, Arizona, caused no injuries, and the subsequent firefighting operation was carried out without any casualties. The incident commander, Montoya, assured that the controlled burns were still in progress to consume the remaining fuel in some of the train cars.

Initially, the eastbound lanes of Interstate 40 were closed around Holbrook, Arizona, and the westbound lanes at Grants, New Mexico. However, these closures have now been lifted, but motorists are advised to expect heavy smoke in some areas and anticipate long delays. The New Mexico Department of Transportation has recommended considering alternative routes or delaying travel to the area due to the potential for extended travel times.

The cause of the derailment remains under investigation. Chief Montoya stated that the National Transportation Safety Board and other federal agencies are conducting an inquiry into the incident. In the meantime, firefighting crews are continuing to clear debris from the site, and repairs to the tracks are in progress.