Huge fire after US oil train derails
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.
No injuries were reported, but officials ordered the evacuation of about 300 people from the nearby town of Casselton as a precaution.
An investigation into the incident has been launched.
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.
Cass County sheriff's office said it was "strongly recommending" that residents in parts of Casselton and anyone living five miles (8km) to the south and east evacuate.
Sgt Tara Morris said that as many as 300 of the 2,400 residents of Casselton may have to be evacuated.
A shelter has been set up in Fargo, about 25 miles away.
Casselton resident Eva Fercho said she first noticed black smoke and then heard two explosions, WDAY News reported.
"I could almost feel the house shake... it was loud," she said.
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.
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