Tanker Truck Crash and Fire Shuts Down 5 Freeway in Pyramid Lake
PYRAMID LAKE, Calif. (KABC) — The 5 Freeway in Pyramid Lake came to a standstill on Monday afternoon after a tanker truck carrying chemical materials crashed and caught fire.
The California Highway Patrol immediately closed off lanes in both directions after receiving reports of the crash around 5:30 p.m. Traffic quickly became congested, causing a major headache for commuters and travelers in the area.
As emergency responders worked to put out the flames, authorities established a half-mile safety perimeter around the scene. Firefighters utilized foam to extinguish the fire, however, the type of chemical being transported by the truck remains unknown.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. It is unclear at this time whether there have been any reported injuries as a result of the incident.
Although northbound lanes were able to reopen by 8 p.m., the southbound side of the freeway continued to be closed down. According to a traffic log, motorists were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid the affected area.
“Breaking: We will add more details to this report as they become available,” stated authorities.
The closure of the 5 Freeway caused a ripple effect, impacting local businesses and adding to commuting times for residents in the surrounding communities. Commuters were urged to stay updated with the latest traffic reports and plan their journeys accordingly.
The shutdown of the 5 Freeway serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with transporting hazardous materials on our roads. Authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the crash and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
As the investigation continues and more details emerge, it is crucial for drivers to remain alert and cautious on the roads. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.