Morgan County,TN Emergency Management and Homeland Security Press Release, Issued approx. 7:45pm 6/15/26
Morgan County Train Derailment Operational Update as of June 15:
Morgan County Emergency Management Agency continues to lead response operations following the Norfolk Southern train derailment in Morgan County. We continue to coordinate with TDEC, EPA, TEMA, local officials, and Norfolk Southern with response activities and protect public health and safety.
Air and water monitoring continue by federal partners and Norfolk Southern contractors. EPA and Norfolk Southern air monitoring has not detected ethanol, and no drinking water issues have been identified at this time. Localized odors may still be noticeable near the river due to the volatile nature of ethanol, but monitoring confirms community air quality remains within safe levels.
As a precaution, TDEC has issued a temporary contact advisory for portions of the Emory River due to the ethanol spill. Visitors should avoid contact with the river in Morgan County near Camp Austin Bridge, the Nemo Picnic Area upstream of the Catoosa Road bridge, and closer to the derailment site near Emory Heights Road until further notice.
The fire is out and continues to be monitored. Trains are moving through the area on one operational track, while derailed cars remain off to the side. Conditions appear stable at this time.
Morgan County EMA will continue working with TDEC, EPA, TEMA, TWRA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Norfolk Southern, and local partners to support environmental monitoring, public safety, response coordination, and remediation oversight. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.