28 Nov 2024 | 11:16 PM UTC
Mexico: Authorities temporarily close section of Chamapa-Lecheria highway in Atizapan de Zaragoza due to tanker truck accident, large fire Nov. 28
Tanker truck accident causes explosion, large fire on Chamapa-Lecheria highway in Atizapan de Zaragoza, Mexico, Nov. 28; traffic disrupted.
Transport disruptions will likely affect the Chamapa-Lecheria highway and nearby roads in the Atizapan de Zaragoza area of Mexico State over the coming hours after a tanker truck crashed on the highway near the Madin toll plaza earlier on Nov. 28, causing an explosion and large fire. The incident reportedly killed the driver of the truck and prompted authorities to close a section of the highway, prompting transport disruptions. Officials also evacuated residents of the Mexico Nuevo area due to concerns over fuel runoff from the accident into the neighborhood, as well as the nearby Galerias Atizapan shopping center. Authorities have brought the fire under control and have commenced cooling work at the scene. The fire emitted thick, black smoke that may negatively affect air quality in the area over the short term. Officials did not immediately indicate when the affected section of the Chamapa-Lecheria highway would reopen to traffic.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the area over the coming hours. Business disruptions will likely affect the Galerias Atizapan shopping center and other locations subject to heightened security, transport disruptions, or evacuations.
Avoid the affected area of Atizapan de Zaragoza until authorities complete their work at the scene of the accident and reopen the closed stretch of the Chamapa-Lecheria highway. Allow extra time for travel and consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected vicinity and lingering disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials. Consider remaining indoors to avoid smoke exposure, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
