In a dramatic incident on Thursday morning, a fuel truck crash on I-95 in Norwalk, Connecticut, led to a massive blaze and subsequent closure of the highway in both directions. The collision, described as a chain-reaction crash, occurred when a car swerved in front of a truck pulling a flatbed trailer, just as a fuel tanker approached the Fairfield Avenue overpass near Exit 15 south. Flames quickly engulfed the scene, spreading down the highway and causing significant damage to the overpass structure, as well as gas, phone, and cable utility lines beneath it.
The intensity of the fire, which occurred just below the Norwalk Fire Department headquarters, resulted in the closure of I-95 North and South, leading to chaotic traffic jams and extensive disruptions to local roads. Although there were no reports of serious injuries, the impact on traffic flow was described as incredible by Governor Ned Lamont.
Hours after the fire was extinguished, the charred remnants of two trucks and a passenger vehicle remained on the closed highway between Exits 15 and 16. Northbound lane closures extended as far as Exit 13 in Darien, according to the Connecticut Department of Transportation.
As cleanup efforts commenced and authorities worked to assess the extent of the damage, motorists were advised to avoid the area, with alternative routes suggested for trucking companies. The closure of I-95 had a significant impact on trucking operations, leading to delays in delivery schedules.
While the overpass was deemed stable and safe by officials, concerns were raised about the structural damage and the potential environmental impact of the fuel spill. Hazmat crews responded to mitigate the spill, with efforts focused on preventing contamination of the Norwalk River. The closure of the affected area was expected to remain in place for an extended period as investigations continued and cleanup operations progressed.
Inspired by: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/i-95-closed-after-fire-in-norwalk-connecticut-expect-delays-for-an-extended-period/ar-AA1o2kIk
