A CSX freight train derailed near a Metro stop in Washington, DC, on Sunday morning, sending about 10 cars off the tracks and spilling hazardous material from one of them, officials said.
No injuries were reported and no evacuations were ordered.
The train derailed Sunday about 6.40 am near the Rhode Island Avenue Metro station and one of the derailed leaked sodium hydroxide, which is used to produce various household products including soap and detergents, CSX spokeswoman Kristin Seay said.
Sodium hydroxide, also known as corrosive lye, is a chemical that can irritate and burn the skin and eyes. CSX says it is working with first responders to contain the chemical.