Sulfuric Acid Spill Causes Shutdown of Interstate in Atlanta, Hospitalizing 2 People

Two first responders were hospitalized due to exposure to the chemical.

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All lanes of Interstate 285 northbound in Atlanta were shut down Thursday after 200 gallons of sulfuric acid spilled all over the road.

According to 11Alive, firefighters were called to respond to the spill, which occurred around 5 p.m. Two Highway Emergency Response Operators, or HEROs, were transported to a nearby hospital after being exposed to the colorless and odorless yet potentially harmful chemical.

HEROs are tasked with helping clear roads following traffic-related incidents in the metro Atlanta area, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation.

All lanes of I-285 northbound at SR166 (Langford Pwky) are closed due to a hazardous material spill. This closure will be long duration, until the spill can be fully cleaned up. Seek alternate routes and avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/TFeQpxDCOA

— Atlanta-Fulton County EMA (@AFCEMA) December 7, 2023
Twitter: @AFCEMA

The Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency warned the shutdown could last for a long time as they want to ensure the spill is fully cleaned up before reopening.

There are plenty of questions about the spill, but unfortunately, there are no answers at the moment.

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