Overturned Propane Truck Cleared In Sonoma County, Hwy 128 Reopens
SONOMA COUNTY (CBS SF) -- An overturned propane tanker on Highway 128 near the Sonoma and Napa County line Tuesday morning prompted an evacuation order and the closure of the highway for hours, according to authorities.
The Sonoma County Sheriff issued an evacuation order at 11:19 a.m. for all residents living within one mile of 18880 Highway 128 due to the overturned propane tanker at that address creating a possible hazardous materials situation. All roads within one mile of the location have been closed.
People on the east side of the tanker can evacuate to the Butler Building at the Calistoga Fairgrounds located at North Oak and Grant Streets.
Sonoma County Deputies performed door-to-door evacuations. CHP Napa, Calistoga, and Sonoma County agencies were on scene, as are fire and medical personnel. So far there are no reports of injuries in connection with the incident.
Authorities confirmed that when the truck crashed, the propane tank began to leak, requiring the evacuation of the area.
At about 11:45 a.m., the Sonoma County Sheriff tweeted that the immediate threat at the location was over. However, the evacuations were to stay in place for two hours.
Sonoma County Fire confirmed that crews were able to stop the main leak on the tanker and were working to contain a second leak. Fire officials said the plan is -- if crews can fully contain the tank -- to place the vehicle upright and transfer the tank onto a second truck.
If they are unable to contain the leak, they will let the tank "off-gas," meaning the liquid propane will be allowed to slowly leak out the propane and turn into gas.
The Santa Rosa CHP office later updated the status of the clean-up shortly after 1 p.m., stating that the one mile safety perimeter was being maintained and the highway would likely be shut down until 7 p.m.
At about 3 p.m., CHP Santa Rosa tweeted that the propane truck had been righted and lanes would reopen shortly.
At about 3:15 p.m., the truck was cleared and all lanes were reopened.
Drivers were advised to expect residual delays in the area. The residents of Calistoga were not effected by the evacuation order.
