Early this morning an 18-wheeler carrying sodium Dioxide rolled over in a curve on FM 1725 just north of FM 3081 in San Jacinto County. The outer jacket ruptured (top cap) and began leaking spilling into the ditch. The driver is deceased. Woodlands Hazmat suited up and was able to approach the vehicle and evaluate it. A three-mile perimeter has been set. Currently, Montgomery County OEM is on the scene with Conroe Hazmat, Woodlands Hazmat, Harris County Hazmat, Porter Fire, South Montgomery County Fire, and North Montgomery Fire. Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with traffic control. Evacuations have been ordered for anyone within a 3-mile perimeter. One person was being treated for inhalation after he stopped to check on the driver when he saw the crash. At this time, the vapor needs to dissipate as there is no clean-up procedure. HAZMAT crews say this will be an all-day event as the tank needs to be off-gas before it can be righted. Anyone in the perimeter needs to leave on FM 3081 toward Willis if you are on the Willis Side of the FM 1725, and travel toward Coldspring on Browder Traylor if you are on the Coldspring Side. South of the scene go toward 105 on FM 1725 if on the north use 1725 toward 150. A shelter has been set up in Coldspring. If you were in the area and breathed the vapors you need to seek medical attention. NOBODY IS BEING ALLOWED INSIDE THE PERIMETER, IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY MEMBER WHO CANNOT GET OUT CONTACT SAN JACINTO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND A CREW WILL BE SENT TO THE LOCATION.
