We have received questions about Medina County’s water and air quality following the East Palestine train derailment. At this time, there is not a threat to Medina County residents but we are monitoring the situation and will share important updates as they become available.
Should we be concerned that parts of Medina County are in the Ohio River watershed?
While parts of Medina County are in the Ohio River watershed, all waters within the watershed flow downstream south towards the Ohio River. Medina County sits at the top of the Ohio River watershed so all water flows south, away from our county. Water would not travel upstream into Medina County from the Ohio River. For these reasons, there are no water quality concerns at this time for Medina County.
Should I test my well water?
Due to the watershed flow heading south, there are not concerns that well water here in Medina County has been impacted by the East Palestine train derailment. If you are interested in having your well water tested, you can call our Environmental Health office at 330-723-9688, option 3. There is a fee to have your water tested. You can also work directly with a private lab or work with a private company to conduct the testing.
Should we be concerned about the air quality in Medina County?
The initial air pollution from the controlled release was carried to the south and east by the winds. Medina County is about 75 miles west and north of the scene. We have no concerns about air pollution locally. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to conduct air monitoring in the East Palestine area. Low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen dioxide have been detected in the immediate area, but no indications have shown that it has reached Medina County. For the most current updates on air and water monitoring, visit the U.S. EPA website.
