UPDATE: Chemical fire on McBrien Road prompts evacuation, officials deem area safe

UPDATE:

Officials have deemed the area safe, and residents are cleared to return home.

I-24 is now reopened.

South Terrace between McBrien Road and Spring Creek Road will remain closed.

Cleanup is estimated to take several days.

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – A chemical fire on McBrien Road causes an evacuation within a half mile radius.

Local Fire, EMS, and law enforcement responded to a call at 9:09 PM  Wednesday to 482 McBrien Road near the RAVE Theatre just off I-24. A tractor trailer hauling organic peroxide and sodium hydroxide was on fire, which caused a major hazmat response. The liquid chemicals in the truck also caught on fire in the parking lot.

When organic peroxide and sodium hydroxide burn, it releases vapors that could cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. An evacuation was quickly prompted, and currently still underway. Residents are able to seek shelter at the Chris Ramsey Community Center, also known as Brainerd Recreation Center on 1010 North Moore Road. For those unable to leave due to mobility issues, call (423) 209-5404 and request assistance.

I-24 is closed in both directions from I-24/I-75 split. East Gate to Moore Road is closed. Expect major traffic delays by I-24 and surrounding areas..

The situation is under control thanks to our emergency responders.

Red Cross Disaster Relief is also at the scene to assist.

It is an ongoing hazmat response and first responders are working as quickly as possible to return residents to a sense of normalcy.

For up-to-date information, follow Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Chattanooga Police Department, Chattanooga Fire Department, and News 12 social media pages.

Officials states that all individuals should remain out of the effective area until further notice.