Lithium battery fire forces almost two-day shutdown of I-15

Interstate 15 has reopened after a nearly two day closure due to a fire involving a load of lithium-ion batteries that started on Friday. 

The closure began when the commercial vehicle hauling the batteries overturned, causing the load to catch fire at about 8 a.m. on Friday, July 26th on I-15 between Bartwo and Baker, California. 

According to CBS News, the fire forced the closure of both sides of the interstate due to the nature of the burning batteries. 

“Due to the lithium-ion, water cannot be added to the fire, the batteries must burn out on their own,” the San Bernardino County Fire Department said. “Lithium-ion fires are particularly hazardous due to the chemicals released during off-gassing and the potential for thermal runaway,” the department later said. “Thermal runaway can cause the fire to spread rapidly and emit toxic gasses, making it essential to handle the situation with extreme caution.”

The closure caused a miles-long backup as fire crews struggled to gain control of the situation. By Saturday afternoon, officials warned drivers that the highway would still not be reopened. 

“Emergency crews on scene are still assessing the situation and evaluating options,” CHP officials said. “The situation and fire remain volatile. The previous anticipated time of opening lanes will not be achievable.”

Triple digit temperatures prompted officials to bring water out to drivers still stuck in the backups and warn other motorists to avoid the area, adding that the location of the incident made alternate routes difficult. 

“Water has been provided at this location for motorists who are stuck without water and experiencing other issues due to heat and vehicle mechanical problems,” the county fire department said in a news statement. “We are actively addressing the needs of motorists stuck without water and experiencing other issues,” the department said, telling motorists to take other routes.

In addition to the fire, the burning batteries prompted air quality concerns. 

“The primary concern is the air quality due to the hazardous materials and chemicals involved,” officials said. “These chemicals pose significant health risks at elevated levels, with hydrogen cyanide and chlorine being particularly dangerous even at low concentrations. We apologize for this inconvenience, but everything that is being done is in the interest of public safety,” the San Bernardino County Fire Department said. “Due to the location of this incident, alternate routes are slim to none.”

By 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 28th, fire crews had made enough progress to reopen two lanes of the interstate. All northbound lanes were reopened by 3:46 a.m. The cause of the semi truck crash is still under investigation and no further information has been released.