Philadelphia, PA – A significant section of the northbound lanes of I-95, a crucial highway on the East Coast of the United States, collapsed in Philadelphia after a tanker truck carrying gasoline caught fire underneath an overpass. While there were no reported deaths or injuries, officials are still investigating the scene of the collapse.
The fire caused smoke to billow from the collapsed area, affecting the main north-south interstate that stretches from Miami through Washington and New York before reaching the Canadian border in Maine. As a result, the southbound overpass was closed due to structural damage caused by the fire.
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania stated during a press conference that it would likely take several months to completely rebuild the roadway, which sees approximately 160,000 vehicles pass through daily. He announced that a disaster declaration would be signed on Monday, allowing for federal assistance and resources to be allocated.
The tanker involved in the incident was carrying a petroleum product, confirmed by Governor Shapiro, with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) specifying that it was transporting gasoline. The NTSB has dispatched a team to investigate the incident.
Governor Shapiro assured the public that while a light sheen was observed in the Delaware River near the site of the fire, indicating a potential gasoline spillage, measures were quickly taken to contain any spread. He emphasized that there is no threat to the drinking water supply.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the collapse, and the White House has offered assistance to state and local officials. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acknowledged the significant impacts that the closure of I-95 will have on the region and the city of Philadelphia.
This affected section of I-95 is located in the densely populated northeastern section of Philadelphia, serving as a vital connection between the city and its northern suburbs, including Bucks County.
Commuters heavily use the highway, beachgoers returning from the Jersey Shore, and travelers heading to cities such as Boston, Baltimore, and Washington.
Travelers are advised to anticipate delays and make alternative travel arrangements, such as utilizing trains, for their daily commutes.
Based on a report by Reuters