A semi-rig hauling lead acid batteries overturned Monday in Virginia. - Photo Courtesy of Troutville Volunteer Fire Department

A semi-rig hauling lead acid batteries overturned Monday in Virginia.

Photo Courtesy of Troutville Volunteer Fire Department

An overturned semi-rig hauling 44,000 pounds of industrial sized lead acid batteries Monday evening required a hazardous materials response in west central Virginia.

At about 6:30 p.m., the semi-rig overturned on Interstate 81 South in Botetourt County, local media report. Hazmat personnel were required to enter the trailer despite a significant amount of leaked acid and remove the batteries.

Botetourt County Fire Chief Jeff Powell told WFXR that electrical arcing was also occurring inside the trailer, increasing the chance of a fire.

All lanes of I-81 southbound were blocked by the wreck. Responders anticipated that the lanes would remain closed for at least 10 hours.  

The driver was uninjured and turned down a trip to the hospital.

 

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