Fuel Tanker on Fire on M1 Princes Motorway Forces Evacuations
A recent incident on the major motorway in Sydney resulted in the roadway’s closure after a fuel tanker exploded.
The fire started around 8:40am and resulted in the evacuation of a nearby childcare centre and other residents in the area as “fireballs” continued to ignite from the tanker.
Firefighters battled to get the blaze, caused by the 36,000 litre fuel tanker, under control resulting in the roadway remaining closed and traffic being brought to a standstill.
The 44 year old driver was lucky to escape from his cabin with only some of his hairs singed after the fully loaded tanker erupted in flames when he pulled over near the Figtree on-ramp.
A witness who worked at the childcare centre that had to be evacuated said the situation was hectic.
In addition to the children being evacuated, sixteen residents were also evacuated as a precaution.
Firefighters struggled to get the blaze under control, even requesting more water. Hazmat crews were also called in to boom drains.
Find out more at https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/news/fuel-tanker-on-fire-on-m1-princes-motorway-at-west-wollongong/news-story/7138c576c4bb1cdb4a29facaca38fc6c