Authorities near Paulsboro, New Jersey, said the accident occurred early in the morning, causing seven train cars to derail and sending three into the water.

The train was carrying vinyl chloride and other industrial chemicals, the Coast Guard said. Vinyl chloride is used to make the plastic known as PVC.

"Authorities are in the process of assessing what materials have been spilled from any damaged container cars," the Coast Guard said in a statement.

"Local authorities have evacuated the area in a half-mile radius. A one-mile safety zone on the water to the north and south of the bridge has been established," the Coast Guard added.

No injuries were reported in the immediate aftermath.