Huge fire after US oil train derails

BBC News

Wagons from a mile-long train carrying crude oil have burst into flames as they derailed after a collision in the US state of North Dakota.

A plume of thick black smoke could be seen many miles away and explosions were heard.

The incident occurred about a mile outside the town of Casselton.

There are no reports of injuries so far. Officials said local residents had been asked to remain indoors as a precaution.

A spokeswoman for the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services said the last 50 wagons of the train had been uncoupled, but another 56 remained at risk.

The derailment, after a collision involving another goods train, is reported to have happened near an ethanol plant.

Emergency and fire-fighting crews have been sent to the scene.

Correspondents say it is the latest in a string of incidents that have raised alarm about a rise in crude oil traffic on the railways.