Travelers on Interstate 5 near Myrtle Creek should expect delays starting early Friday morning as crews begin cleaning up a fuel spill from an overturned tanker truck. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon when a truck carrying gasoline overturned in the southbound lanes at Exit 103 (Tri City/Riddle), causing the interstate to close for several hours. Officials have confirmed that no waterways were affected by the spill.
Cleanup operations are set to start at 4:30 a.m. on Friday, December 19, and may last several days. During this period, southbound traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone, while northbound drivers will encounter an inside shoulder closure.
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is leading the cleanup effort with support from an environmental contractor. Crews will assess the extent of contamination once work begins on Friday, and if pavement replacement is required, the process could take longer.
“Drivers are reminded to slow down through the work zone and watch for workers and equipment on the roadway. Allow extra space for southbound vehicles merging onto Interstate 5 from Exit 103.”
With increased holiday travel expected to add to traffic congestion, officials recommend allowing extra time for trips in the area. Travelers can check TripCheck.com for updates on road conditions.
For more information, media contacts include Julie Denney, ODOT public information officer, and Dylan Darling, DEQ public affairs specialist.
