Residents Evacuate, Shelter In Place After Toxic Spill On Arizona Highway

The article reports on a nitric acid spill that occurred on Interstate 10 in Arizona, which led to road closures and evacuations of nearby residents.

The spill occurred when a truck carrying the chemical overturned and leaked its contents onto the road. Nitric acid is a highly corrosive and potentially hazardous substance that can cause severe burns and respiratory problems.

The article notes that hazmat crews were called to the scene to clean up the spill and that no injuries were reported. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

Authorities in Arizona issued evacuation and shelter-in-place orders after a deadly crash Tuesday afternoon led to a toxic spill near Tucson.

A commercial truck carrying liquid nitric acid rolled over on Interstate 10, killing the driver and spilling the hazardous material onto the highway, according to a press release issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS).

Authorities issued an evacuation order for all residents within a half-mile of the crash site and a shelter-in-place order for those within a one-mile radius. The interstate was also closed in both directions, the release noted.

Nitric acid is a colorless liquid with yellow or red fumes and a harsh smell. Exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, skin and mucous membrane, and can lead to delayed pulmonary edema, bronchitis, pneumonitis and dental erosion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).