Big rig leaking sulfuric acid shuts down I-880 in Hayward, lanes re-open
HAYWARD, Calif. (KTVU and BCN) - A sulfuric acid leak from a flatbed truck prompted the closure of a portion of both southbound and northbound 880, leaving traffic backed up for miles Friday afternoon into the evening.
Northbound lanes, followed by southbound lanes have since opened, but the on-ramp from Winton Ave. remains closed.
The Alameda County Fire Department, Hayward, and Fremont firefighters continue to work on the situation after responding to the scene at Winton Avenue for the Hazmat situation.
According to a California Highway Patrol spokesperson, the sulfuric acid leak from the truck prompted the Hazmat situation in the area shortly after 12:30 p.m. Friday. The truck did not crash, and the driver pulled over as soon as he noticed the leak.
Sky Fox captured footage over the truck which appeared to show dark, reddish brown fumes leaking into the air.
A shelter in place was issued for the surrounding area, but as of 4 p.m. the shelter was lifted.
Sky Fox overhead showed a small fire next to the truck. Authorities say the acid hit the ground and started the grass fire.
Initially emergency vehicles stayed clear of the immediate scene and were not attempting to put out the fire.
As of 2 p.m. several firefighters worked from afar - aiming fire hoses at the fire.
At this point, there's no estimate on when southbound lanes will reopen. Additional details have not been released.