Authorities have ordered evacuations in parts of McPherson, Kansas, after a semi-truck overturned and began leaking hazardous material early Monday morning. The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. near Kansas Avenue and U.S. 81, where McPherson Fire Department crews discovered the truck was leaking hydrochloric acid. The driver escaped without injuries.
According to officials, “The semi-truck was hauling 34,000lb of the fluid, and it’s unknown the spilled quantity at this time.”
A hazardous hydrochloric acid leak from an overturned semi has triggered evacuations in McPherson, Kansas. Hazmat teams are working to contain the chemical spill, and a warming shelter has been set up at The Cedars for evacuated residents.
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Hazmat Teams Work to Contain McPherson Chemical Spill
The McPherson Fire Department’s Hazmat Team is leading the response to the McPherson chemical spill, taking immediate action to contain the dangerous leak. Crews entered the truck and deployed booms around a nearby storm drain to prevent the acid from entering the city’s sewage system.
An environmental remediation contractor is on the way to the site to assist with cleanup and the safe removal of the spilled hydrochloric acid.
Road Closures and Emergency Shelter for Evacuated Residents
Roads surrounding the spill site remain closed as emergency teams continue cleanup and containment efforts. To support displaced residents, officials have opened a warming shelter at The Cedars, located at 1021 Cedars Drive in McPherson.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area until the hazmat cleanup is complete.
