Traffic backed up for miles after hazardous material spill on highway
Drivers making the Tuesday morning commute toward Columbia on a major highway were delayed following a crash that caused a hazardous material spill and traffic jam.
An eastbound lane on Interstate 26 was blocked near Exit 85, according to the South Carolina Department of Transportation. That’s in Newberry County, not far from the Lexington County line. At about 10:30 a.m., SCDOT said all of the eastbound lanes were closed because of the crash and spill.
The crash happened at about 3:45 a.m., SCDOT said.
Information about the cause of the collision, and the number of vehicles involved, was not available. A truck was involved in the wreck and fuel spill, according to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety did not say if anyone was injured in the crash.
Vehicles were congested, causing a backup for at least three miles on I-26, the sheriff’s office said.
There was no word when the scene would be cleared.
Drivers should try to avoid the area if possible.
At about 10:50 a.m., South Carolina Highway Patrol said a detour was in place at the 82 mile marker.
“Please reduce your speed, use caution and expect delays,” Master Trooper Brandon Bolt, said on Twitter.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published February 21, 2023 at 7:47 AM.
