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Guadalajara–Tepic highway partially closed after chemical reaction
The Guadalajara–Tepic highway remains under partial closure following a major accident involving two tractor-trailers that caught fire on Wednesday night near kilometer 72 in the Magdalena-Ixtlán del Río section.
Emergency responders reported a hazardous situation when sodium metabisulfite, a chemical powder used as a preservative and disinfectant, reacted with the water used to extinguish the flames. This reaction created a highly acidic solution and a pungent odor capable of irritating the respiratory system.
Specialized hazardous materials teams, the National Guard, and highway operators have been working to stabilize the site. Measures include using dump trucks to spread earth over the affected area to contain the chemical. While one lane toward Tepic was partially reopened on Thursday morning, authorities advise motorists to remain cautious as cleanup operations continue.
Entities
Guadalajara–Tepic Highway · Guardia Nacional Carreteras · Jalisco · Nayarit
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Two tractor-trailers caught fire on Wednesday night at kilometer 72 of the highway.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Dump trucks were used to spread earth over the affected area to control the chemical substance.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sodium metabisulfite reacted chemically when it came into contact with water used to fight the fire.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The chemical reaction produced a highly acidic solution and a pungent odor that can irritate respiratory tracts.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Guadalajara–Tepic highway remains under partial closure following an accident and fire.