News Summary

A hazardous materials spill caused by a truck crash has resulted in temporary lane closures on I-20 in Aiken County. The South Carolina Department of Transportation announces closures impacting traffic Monday through Friday. Local residents have been instructed to shelter in place during cleanup efforts, which could last through the end of May. The spill involved methyl acetate, raising concerns about public safety and necessitating a coordinated emergency response.

Aiken County, SC – Major Hazardous Materials Spill Causes Closures on I-20

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) announced temporary lane closures on I-20 East and West in Aiken County, effective May 27. This action follows a hazardous materials spill that occurred after a truck crash on Tuesday afternoon.

Lane closures will take place Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Fridays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., lasting through the end of May. Motorists are strongly advised to seek alternate routes and prepare for potential delays during these periods.

The incident transpired around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday when a freightliner traveling eastbound veered off the road near exit 22. The truck crashed between two bridges, resulting in a spill of methyl acetate, a highly flammable substance.

Although all lanes of I-20 were reopened by 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, nearby Columbia Highway remained closed until 11:20 a.m. following the incident. One individual was transported to a hospital, but their injuries have not been disclosed.

Emergency Response and Community Precautions

In light of the hazardous materials spill, residents in the vicinity were instructed to shelter in place. Alerts were distributed through Facebook and the CodeRed application to keep the community informed.

During the response, eastbound traffic was diverted off I-20 at Edgefield Highway, Exit 18, while westbound traffic was redirected at Wire Road, Exit 29. The Center Fire & Rescue Department indicated that the cleanup would require at least 10 hours, further impacting local traffic and access to Frontage Road and Highway 1 at Fulmer Road.

Investigation and Ongoing Cleanup Efforts

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the crash, focusing on the circumstances that caused the truck to veer off the interstate. Multiple emergency response agencies, including the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office and Hazmat teams, were deployed to manage the cleanup operation.

Access issues resulting from the hazardous material leak have affected several nearby businesses, requiring nearby residents and travelers to adjust their plans amid ongoing cleanup efforts. The situation has highlighted the challenges posed by hazardous materials incidents and the coordination required among various agencies to ensure public safety.

Context of Methyl Acetate

Methyl acetate is commonly used in the production of adhesives, coatings, and some forms of paint. Due to its highly flammable nature, incidents involving this substance can pose significant risks to public safety and the environment. The quick response by emergency personnel is crucial in managing such spills to minimize danger to the surrounding community.

As the investigation continues and cleanup efforts remain ongoing, both the SCDOT and local authorities urge residents and travelers to stay informed about potential road closures and alternate route options. Public communication will remain a priority to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in the affected areas.

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Major Hazardous Materials Spill Causes Closures on I-20