A TRUCK carrying a radioactive uranium compound crashed on Wednesday as drivers were evacuated from the area, reports say.
The accident happened along the I-95 in Cumberland County at around 11.30am, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed.
The truck was reportedly carrying uranium hexafluoride, which can be used to make fuel for nuclear power plants.
Radiation from the chemical is said to present minimal risk to transport workers, emergency response personnel, and the public during transportation accidents.
Highway Patrol said it is at the scene and moving drivers from the location as the I-95 remains shut down.
Officers told WTVD that the compound is not leaking but they are worried about wind direction.
According to WNCN, the tractor-trailer overturned and is blocking both lanes of traffic.
The cause of the crash is unknown.
“This is not a hazardous waste cleanup," the state's Department of Transportation announved.
"The tractor-trailer crashed and turned over, on it’s side. It was hauling uranium, however.
"We are proceeding to get equipment in place to right-side the tractor-trailer, then haul it away, off the interstate and reopen it," it added.
Highway Patrol said that the area will remain closed until 5.35pm.
Source: Read Full Article
