# Gas tanker explosion on Highway 99 in California

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/gas-tanker-explosion-on-highway-99-in-california
> Updated: 2026-08-09T20:52:03.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

A gasoline tanker carrying approximately 8,600 gallons exploded on Highway 99 near Selma in Fresno County, California, following a collision with a box truck. The accident, which preliminary investigations suggest was caused by an unsafe lane change, resulted in a large fire and the temporary closure of southbound lanes to manage traffic and contain the blaze.

Emergency responders, including multiple fire departments, worked to contain the massive fire. Caltrans closed the southbound lanes at Second Street, diverting traffic toward State Route 43 at the Floral Avenue Exit, which caused significant regional traffic backups. While reports on the condition of the drivers varied—with one account mentioning a driver in critical condition and others stating both drivers emerged with only minor injuries—the incident was reported to have resulted in no fatalities.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-09: Fuel tanker accidents cause explosions and road closures in California and Mexico

Fuel tanker accidents in California and Puebla, Mexico, caused explosions, gas leaks, and major highway closures, though injuries reported were non-fatal.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fuel-tanker-accidents-cause-explosions-and-leaks-in-california-and-mexico

### 2026-08-08: Gas tanker explosion shuts down Highway 99 near Selma, California

A gasoline tanker carrying 8,600 gallons exploded on Highway 99 near Selma, California, after colliding with a box truck. The crash caused a massive fire and closed southbound lanes for several hours.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gas-tanker-explosion-shuts-down-highway-99-near-selma-california

---
Cite as: Gas tanker explosion on Highway 99 in California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/gas-tanker-explosion-on-highway-99-in-california