**Investigation Underway for Acid Spill Following Semi Fire – Radio Iowa**
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is currently investigating an alarming incident that took place at the I-80 eastbound rest area near Adair on Tuesday. A semi-trailer owned by World Way Freight Transport caught fire, leading to a spill of lactic acid, sparking concerns about environmental impact and potential hazards in the area.
Details of the Incident
According to the DNR, the semi-trailer was transporting poly totes filled with lactic acid when the driver noticed smoke coming from the tires. In a quick attempt to address the issue, the driver pulled over at the rest area. Unfortunately, by the time firefighters arrived at the scene, the majority of the trailer and its contents were engulfed in flames. It is estimated that around 550 gallons of lactic acid were lost during the incident.
Environmental Concerns and Clean-Up Efforts
The spill of acid and the water used to extinguish the fire flowed through two storm drains and entered a tile intake leading to an unnamed tributary of the South Fork Middle River. This prompted immediate action from an environmental clean-up company tasked with sanitizing the affected area and contaminated soil. Despite the potential dangers posed by the spill, as of Wednesday, no dead fish had been discovered in the nearby water bodies.
Impact and Current Status
The repercussions of the acid spill and fire have resulted in the closure of the rest area until the clean-up process is successfully completed. The investigation by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full extent of the environmental impact caused by the incident.
This unexpected turn of events serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in transporting hazardous materials, as well as the need for swift and effective response protocols in emergencies. It also highlights the critical role of environmental clean-up crews in mitigating the aftermath of such incidents and safeguarding ecosystems from potential harm. Let us reflect on this incident as a call to action for heightened awareness and preparedness in handling hazardous materials to protect our communities and natural surroundings.
