After the horrendous crash and Hazmat spill on Tuesday, a portion of Arizona freeway was closed in both directions. The authorities have stated that this closure on Interstate 10 between Rita and Kolb roads in Tucson was “extensive” and urged the motorists to avoid the area.

Earlier, news broke out that an alert was released and people were directed to shelter in place if present within one-mile radius of the incident. However, the authorities have not made it clear if there is any danger to the public or not.

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What happened in Tucson, Arizona?

As per the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the crash happened at milepost 272. A commercial truck rolled over on the freeway and leaked hazardous material in the area. Later, the Pima Country officials confirmed that the spilled substance was nitric acid. A video of the incident was widely shared over the internet.

Not so long ago, a train derailment in Ohio leaked toxic chemicals into the air in the town of East Palestine. Weeks later, another Hazmat spill has caused havoc in the country.

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According to official data, Nitric acid is “very toxic by inhalation” and “corrosive to metals or tissue”. The official website of the Arizona DPS confirms that the commercial vehicle involved in this accent was hauling nitric acid in liquid form. The website added, “Troopers anticipate an extensive closure” on the concerned route.

The department has stated that the investigation and subsequent steps to mitigate the incident are underway. First responders are working to evacuate a perimeter around the area of the incident. Moreover, the alert issued suggests that the ‘shelter-in-place’ could remain in effect for up to 12 hours. However, there is no word on when the road may reopen.