The Coquihalla Highway is now open northbound but remains closed southbound due to a semi truck fire.
The highway is closed southbound between the Othello Tunnels and Merritt. The semi-trailer truck is on fire about two kilometres west of the Carolin Mines exit.
The tractor trailer was hauling Phenol Formaldehyde Resin, which is a corrosive liquid. Initial reports indicate that the product is leaking onto the Coquihalla Highway and into the ditch. Sand is currently being used to dam the ditch and prevent further spread of the product.
Two Environmental Emergency Response Officers (EEROs) have been called in.
An 800 metre exclusion zone is in place around the truck for protection.
The fire is currently between the tractor and the load. At this time, the load is not on fire.
A spill response contractor has also been deployed to the site.
Drive BC says Highway 1 or Highway 3 could be used as an alternate route.
Drivers should check Drive BC for updates.
- Joffre Lakes to close for 3 periods this year under agreement with First Nations
- ‘Why aren’t we doing more?’ White Rock on edge with killer on the loose
- B.C. carjacking victim says she doesn’t trust the ‘catch-and-release’ system
- B.C. woman’s journey to sobriety highlights the need for drug treatment
Comments