Emergency crews are responding to a serious chemical spill following an 18-wheeler crash on FM-1725 in San Jacinto County. According to our news partner ABC13, sulfur oxide was identified as the spilled chemical, leading to health concerns and the treatment of 37 individuals for symptoms such as sore throat and coughing.
Details about the condition of the driver and others affected remain unavailable, as officials have not yet released further information.
Scene Overview
SkyEye footage obtained by ABC13 shows an overturned 18-wheeler on the side of the roadway with a visible pool of liquid behind it. Emergency vehicles, including hazmat fire trucks, were stationed in clusters near the crash site, some as far as a few miles away from the incident.
The San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) confirmed on social media that a strong chemical odor was reported after the crash.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Initially, authorities evacuated a mile-wide area surrounding FM-1725 and Tyra Drive, near FM-3081. However, in a later update, TxDOT Lufkin expanded the evacuation zone to a three-mile radius. FM-1725 remains closed in both directions at FM-3081, and residents are being urged to avoid the area entirely.
For those displaced by the evacuations, a shelter has been set up at 250 Live Oak St. in Coldspring, providing support to evacuees as hazmat teams work to resolve the situation.
HAZMAT SPILL: The closure has expanded for three miles each direction from this spill. FM 1725 is closed at FM 3081 in San Jacinto County due to a crash that resulted in a hazmat spill. Avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/NhpJfpUUJs
— TxDOT Lufkin (@TxDOTLufkin) January 24, 2025
Expert Insight
During ABC13’s 9 a.m. streaming newscast, environmental toxicologist Dr. Noreen Kahn-Mayberry emphasized the seriousness of the spill and the importance of following official guidance.
“When first responders take this kind of precaution, as a private individual, you should take the utmost precaution,” Kahn-Mayberry stated. “If they say shelter in place or tell you to get out of the area, get out of the area.”
Ongoing Cleanup Efforts
Hazmat specialists are actively working to clear the scene, but officials have not provided a timeline for when the area will reopen. The immediate vicinity of the crash is heavily wooded, with a few homes nearby, further complicating cleanup efforts.
Residents and drivers are advised to stay updated through official channels as emergency crews address the spill and ensure public safety.
Que Onda Magazine will continue to provide updates as more details become available. For additional coverage, visit our news partner ABC13.
