Pennsylvania Governor, Josh Shapiro has announced on Thursday that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be conducting independent water samples following the recent train derailment in East Palestine.

The DEP is also assisting concerned water suppliers by evaluating their source water at Beaver Falls Municipal Authority's surface water intake on the Beaver River.

Governor Shapiro assured PA residents that these tests will continue for months to come. 

"As we work to learn more about this incident and hold Norfolk Southern accountable, the commonwealth will also lead the way so that Pennsylvanians are aware and protected from any threats to their safety and resources that may arise," Shapiro said.

The DEP will take independent samples from Norfolk Southern sampling sites, as well as samples from within a two-mile radius of the derailment site for examination by the DEP Bureau of Laboratories. 

These samples will be taken monthly to watch for any long-term impacts.

Currently, the DEP does not believe there is likely to be any contamination of water wells in the commonwealth, however if you have concerns, you can contact 412-442-4000 for information on well water testing.