Freight train derails in Czech Republic, causing major chemical fire

Czech firefighters are battling a major chemical blaze in eastern Czech Republic after a freight train derailed and carcinogenic benzol from damaged tank wagons caught fire. The derailment took place around noon local time Friday with the fire sending thick black smoke into the air visible from a long distance. No one has been injured. Firefighters said that 15 of the 17 tanks in the train were on fire. Each tank contained about 60 metric tons or 66 tons of the toxic substance. Residents have been advised not to open the windows and stay inside.