Update: Train traffic moving again while crews continue to clean-up the wreckage near Salton Sea

UPDATE 03/20/2026
Crews have cleared the tracks near the train wreckage and train traffic is flowing through the area. Crews continue to clean-up the toppled cars, and NTSB is now on scene investigating.

UPDATE 03/19/2026

Officials say that Highway 111 is now open as of Thursday morning.

Original Report:

MECCA, Calif. (KESQ)- Emergency crews were on the scene of a train derailment in the Mecca/North Shore area near the Salton Sea Wednesday night.

According to Cal Fire, the train derailed just after 5:00 pm near Parkside Drive and Highway 111. Officials said at least 20 cars derailed, and a hazardous materials team was responding.

None of the chemical freight (hazardous material) appeared to have been affected.

No injuries were reported.

Highway 111 was closed from Bayside Dr to beyond the derailment. No estimate was given about when the highway would reopen.

We have reached out to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department and Union Pacific for more details. This is developing news. Check back for updates.