Evacuations and road closures are expected to remain in place overnight as a propane tanker continues to burn after going off Vermont Route 14 and into the Black River.
No injuries have been reported
Crews on scene are continuing to monitor the blaze and take steps to reduce the likelihood of an explosion. An evacuation zone with a one-mile radius from the crash site will remain in effect while the fire keeps burning.
The American Red Cross is opening an evacuation shelter at 5:30 p.m. at Irasburg Town Hall. The Vermont Agency of Human Services also is coordinating with the Red Cross. Parents of students at the two schools within the evacuation zone — Coventry Village School and New Hope Bible School — should contact administrators Tuesday morning regarding the status of classes.
Inspection of the vehicle by drone has revealed a puncture in the side of the 10,000-gallon liquid propane gas tanker, significantly reducing the possibility of a catastrophic explosion. As a result of damage to the tanker, the fire likely will continue to burn until the propane has been exhausted.
Representatives of the Vermont State Police, Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Enforcement and Safety Division, Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team, and the Irasburg Fire Department will be available to speak with the media at 3 p.m. Monday at the VSP barracks in Derby, located at 35 Crawford Rd.