Fire Officials: 5,400 Gallons Of Nitric Acid Spilled In Minneapolis
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO/AP) -- Minneapolis fire officials say an estimated 5,400 gallons of nitric acid has been spilled on the city's east side.
According to the fire department, the incident occurred at 3100 East Hennepin Avenue Friday morning.
Fire officials say the spill has been contained, but they are working with the MPCA and Public Works to mitigate product that got into storm drains. As of 11 a.m., crews said they believe about 600 to 700 gallons made their way into the storm drains.
Traffic is shut down in the area, but no injuries have been reported.
The nitric acid was neutralized with soda ash, and crews said they will flush it out of the systems to mitigate environmental concerns.
Hazardous Materials Response - 3100 E Hennepin Ave. Spill of Nitric Acid on site. Amount of spill now estimated to be 5400 gal. Spill has been contained. Traffic is shut down on E Hennepin from 31st to Talmadge.
— Minneapolis Fire (@MinneapolisFire) March 1, 2019
MFD, MPCA and Public Works are working to mitigate product that got into storm drains.
— Minneapolis Fire (@MinneapolisFire) March 1, 2019
Nitric acid is a highly corrosive, toxic liquid that can cause burns. It is often used in fertilizers.
(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)