Louisiana orders evacuation after train derails

Two of out of the six railroad cars that came off thetracks are leaking hydrochloric acid, according to theLouisiana State Police. Hydrochloric acid in mist or liquidform can severely burn human skin, eyes, lungs and intestines.

Residents within a mile radius of the derailment were takento a high school outside the city, said Andrew Shenkan, generalmanager of KATC-TV, which is operating a telephone informationline for evacuees. The phone line was last activated forHurricane Rita in 2005.

Those ordered to evacuate are being told to expect to beout of their homes for at least 48 hours, Shenkan said.

Lafayette has a population estimated at 114,000, accordingto the U.S. Census Bureau.

(Reporting by Erwin Seba; Editing by Doina Chiacu)