Hazmat Spill Shuts Down EB Lanes Of Highway 92

SAN MATEO, CA — Hazardous material spilled across the eastbound lanes of Highway 92 on Thursday morning, prompting a large emergency response and shutting down a stretch of the highway into the evening.

The San Mateo Police Department said the spill happened just west of Highway 101 and asked people in nearby areas to shelter in place while crews evaluated the liquid. County fire officials confirmed eastbound lanes of Highway 92 were closed at noon.

In an update shared at 2 p.m., police said they expected the highway closure to continue through the evening commute.

"Please avoid the area and plan your commute accordingly," police wrote in an updated post. "The affected school is relocating students to a different campus. Those living or working in the area are encouraged to shelter in place."

As of 11:45 a.m. Thursday, 19th Avenue remained closed in both directions between Grant Street and South Norfolk Street. The department said it would share an update on the incident when possible.

In a brief update late Thursday afternoon, police said the liquid is used for water treatment and is slightly corrosive but considered "very low risk." Drivers who passed through the spill are encouraged to wash their cars.