A massive tractor-trailer fire and explosion on Route 3 in Clifton, New Jersey, on Monday sent flames shooting high into the air and forced nearby homes to be evacuated.
A harrowing video captured the moment a tractor-trailer exploded and erupted in flames on a busy New Jersey highway, causing extensive damage, traffic delays, and evacuations.
The incident unfolded shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Monday, when a tractor-trailer traveling on Route 3 near Clifton, New Jersey, suddenly caught fire. In a dramatic video shared online, a passerby captured the unfolding chaos as firefighters arrived at the scene.
Devastating Tractor-Trailer Fire and Explosion Cause Chaos on New Jersey Highway
As the video begins, a Clifton Fire Department truck is visible, and a firefighter can be seen walking away from the flames. But within seconds, a deafening explosion occurs, catching the firefighter's attention.
"Oh, my goodness," the person recording the video exclaims, as a mushroom cloud of smoke billows into the air.
Devastating Tractor-Trailer Fire and Explosion Cause Chaos on New Jersey Highway
The firefighter takes a few cautious steps backward before turning to face the flames again. Moments later, a second explosion erupts, sending a flaming projectile soaring high into the sky.
The fire quickly spread, engulfing the tractor-trailer and causing severe damage to the surrounding area. Clifton Police Department received a call about the incident at 9:07 a.m., and the first arriving officer reported hearing additional explosions.
Devastating Tractor-Trailer Fire and Explosion Cause Chaos on New Jersey Highway
As a precaution, authorities ordered the evacuation of nearby homes. Route 3 was closed in both directions, causing major traffic backups near the scene. As of 1:33 p.m., the highway remained closed, and commuters were advised to use alternate routes.
The cause of the crash and explosion is still under investigation. Police have not released any information about potential injuries or if anyone was inside the tractor-trailer at the time of the incident.
Devastating Tractor-Trailer Fire and Explosion Cause Chaos on New Jersey Highway
The fire and explosion are the latest in a series of highway accidents that have occurred in New Jersey in recent months. Just last week, a tanker truck carrying a flammable gas crashed on the New Jersey Turnpike, causing a massive fire and road closures.
Authorities are urging drivers to be cautious when traveling on highways and to obey all traffic laws. They also recommend that drivers check traffic reports before embarking on their journeys to avoid potential delays and hazards.
