NORWALK, Conn. – Interstate 95 in Norwalk, Connecticut faces a lengthy closure after a fuel truck crashed and ignited under an overpass, leading to a chain reaction crash with other vehicles. The incident occurred early Thursday morning just past Exit 15 South, resulting in the closure of I-95 in both directions for several days.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency due to the extensive damage caused by the fire. Crews have begun the process of demolishing the overpass, which is expected to take at least 24 hours.
The fiery crash not only destroyed the overpass but also caused significant damage to gas, phone, and cable utility lines running underneath it. With the closure of I-95, drivers are forced to use alternative routes, leading to major disruptions in traffic flow and potential supply chain issues for local businesses.
The closure of the heavily traveled stretch of I-95, serving 160,000 vehicles daily, has prompted officials to advise travelers to utilize Interstate 84 as a detour through the state. Governor Lamont urged employers to allow employees to work from home to help alleviate the traffic congestion caused by the closure.
In light of the closure, Metro-North has additional crews on standby in case extra train services are needed. Norwalk Public Schools will remain closed due to potential traffic delays, impacting scheduled activities such as athletic games, drama performances, and proms.
Hazmat crews responded to the spill of 8,500 gallons of fuel from the tanker, with concerns about environmental impacts. Despite fears of contamination, testing revealed no adverse effects on air or water quality.
The aftermath of the crash on I-95 serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures on highways and the need for quick and effective responses to emergencies. Avoiding the area of the incident and following detours are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all travelers.