Hazardous Materials Truck Fire Closes A44 Motorway in North Rhine-Westphalia

Emergency services have contained the fire, but the motorway remains closed, causing significant traffic disruptions.

A truck carrying hazardous materials, including flammable methanol, caught fire on the A44 motorway near Soest on March 21, 2025.
The fire, reportedly caused by a tire blowout, started in the truck's cab before engulfing the entire vehicle.
Emergency response teams, including firefighters and police, quickly controlled the fire, preventing further escalation.
The 58-year-old truck driver sustained minor injuries, and no other casualties were reported.
The motorway remains closed in both directions between Soest-Ost and Erwitte/Anröchte, with motorists advised to avoid the area.