ORLANDO, FL – A crash involving a semi-truck carrying hazardous materials caused significant disruptions on Interstate 4 near Champions Gate on Thursday. The accident, which occurred around 11 a.m., resulted in the closure of westbound lanes, creating a traffic nightmare for motorists in Osceola County.
The semi-truck, hauling fertilizer, collided with a Ford Focus, causing the truck to overturn and burst into flames. Emergency crews worked tirelessly throughout the day to contain the fire and clean up the hazardous spill. Despite the dramatic scene, authorities confirmed that no one was seriously injured in the incident.
As firefighters battled the blaze, the eastbound lanes of I-4 were reopened by late afternoon. However, the westbound lanes remained closed, with no clear timeline for reopening. The closure led to severe congestion on local roads, including Poinciana Boulevard and US 192, as drivers sought alternative routes.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the collision occurred when the two vehicles were traveling side by side. The impact caused the semi-truck to lose control and slam into a guardrail, igniting a massive fireball visible from a distance.
On the ground, drivers were caught in gridlock, with some reporting delays of over an hour. The backup extended for miles, making the journey frustrating for those attempting to navigate the area. Many drivers expressed their frustration, advising others to check traffic maps before heading out.
The accident drew a large response from emergency services, including hazmat teams, fire engines, and the Florida Department of Transportation. Crews used hoses and water pools to douse the flames and manage the hazardous materials, emphasizing the complexity of the cleanup operation.
As the evening wore on, officials continued to reroute traffic, advising drivers to detour via World Drive and US 27. The situation remained fluid, with authorities working to restore normal traffic flow as soon as possible.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers on one of the nation’s busiest highways. Motorists are urged to remain patient and cautious as cleanup efforts continue.