City officials said no evacuations were necessary, and air quality monitoring conducted by an independent consultant contracted by CSX and local first responders showed no readings above action levels.

The emergency declaration, coordinated with the city of Dunnellon, comes as officials estimate 30,000 to 40,000 railroad ties caught fire early Sunday, prompting immediate response from Marion County Fire Rescue and Hazardous Materials teams.

Residents packed Dunnellon City Hall Monday night to voice concerns about potential long-term health effects following a railroad tie fire in Marion County that sent thick smoke into nearby neighborhoods.

A massive railroad tie fire broke out in Marion County, prompting a warning due to the potential of toxic smoke.