Storm winds blow rail cars from East Texas overpass

LUFKIN, Texas (AP) — Strong winds from a severe thunderstorm have blown 64 empty rail cars from an East Texas overpass, closing a heavily traveled highway but causing no injuries.

Lufkin police say a straight-line wind of at least 40 mph blew the cars from the Angelina and Neches River Railroad overpass onto Loop 287 near U.S. 69 about 7 a.m. Sunday. Sgt. Dale Jowell said street signs, power lines and trees along the stretch of rail bed were downed and billboards also were damaged.

A police statement said about 48 hours would be needed to right the rail cars.

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Storm winds blow rail cars from East Texas overpass