The train derailed over Interstate 5

There have been a number of deaths after an Amtrak train derailed on an overpass in Washington State, according to a spokesman for the local sheriff's office

The train derailed on a bridge over a major highway in DuPont, Washington - leaving it hanging over the Interstate 5. and blocking all southbound lanes.

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department said it had reports of both injuries and casualties. Among the injured were motorists who had been struck by the derailed cars, none of whom were killed.

Follow the latest live updates on our liveblog below. If you cannot see the live blog, click here

Washington Gov Jay Inslee offered a message of support to first responders and urged commuters to avoid the area.

“This is an ongoing and serious situation,” Mr Inslee said on Twitter.

In an image shared by the Washington State Department of Transportation, a train car can be seen hanging off of the tracks and protruding into the highway. The agency noted that all southbound lanes were blocked and urged commuters to avoid the area.