US: Police warn of lingering transport disruptions following hazmat spill on eastbound California State Route 92 in San Mateo, Calif., July 13

Event

Police in San Mateo, California, have warned that eastbound California State Route 92 (SR 92) will remain closed to the west of US Route 101 (US 101) through the evening commute on July 13 due to a hazardous material spill in the area on the former route. Authorities have deployed to the incident site and determined that the spilled material is sodium bisulphate, a chemical on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Safer Chemical Ingredients List. While authorities therefore believe that the spill poses a low risk to people in the area, officials have nonetheless advised individuals within 0.4 km (0.25 miles) of the SR 92/US 101 interchange to shelter in place and keep their windows closed as a precaution. Police have also instructed people elsewhere in San Mateo to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Additionally, police have cautioned that 19th Avenue has been closed to traffic in both directions between Grant Street and South Norfolk Street. No injuries were immediately reported in connection with the incident.

Transport and business disruptions are likely in the area until officials give the all-clear. Residual transport delays are possible even after authorities reopen eastbound SR 92 as traffic flows normalize.

Advice

Avoid the affected area until authorities give the all-clear. Prepare to take alternate routes to circumvent the incident site and any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.