The White House issued a statement clarifying why Ohio was rejected for FEMA assistance following the February 3 train derailment which spilled hazardous materials in East Palestine. “The Biden Administration is mobilizing a robust, multi-agency effort to support the people of East Palestine, Ohio,” the White House said. They explained FEMA isn’t best equipped for the current needs of the community as the agency usually provides hurricane or other natural disaster relief. Despite assurances from the EPA and Ohio state officials, experts are concerned about the safety of the water and air. Sil Caggiano, a local hazardous materials specialist said, “This really looks like a nuclear winter. Pretty much, yeah, we nuked this town with chemicals.”
