Shelter In Place Issued After Hazmat Fire, Crash On Route 422

UPPER PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP, PA — Route 422 has been shut down in the westbound lanes in Montgomery County after a truck carrying hazardous materials caught fire, authorities said. Nearby businesses downwind of the smoke have been ordered to shelter in place.

The incident occurred at 8:08 a.m. near the Route 29 Collegeville exit in Upper Providence, at mile marker 184.1.

Photos from the scene show that it was a Big Lots tractor trailer that caught fire. Large plumes of smoke were visible for miles, and debris was scattered across the roadway.

The Upper Providence Township Department of Fire and Emergency Services said that the truck contained "mixed-use electronic materials." NBC Philadelphia reports the truck was carrying lithium batteries.

Police are urging people who are standing outside the nearby Providence Town Center to move away, as the smoke from the fire could be hazardous. It's not yet clear how far the dangerous fumes could spread.

Drivers passing through the area should roll up their windows.

Drivers on Route 422 heading west are being directed to exit at the Route 29 westbound exit.

It's not yet clear if there are any injuries.

This is a breaking story. Refresh the page for more details as they become available.