Tesla Semi Fire Shuts Down California Interstate for 16 Hours

A crash involving a Tesla Semi truck led to a hazardous materials incident, releasing toxic fumes and causing extensive road closures.

The Tesla Semi crashed into trees on Interstate 80, igniting its large battery pack.
Firefighters struggled to extinguish the fire, which burned at over 1,000 degrees.
Toxic fumes from the battery necessitated a half-mile buffer zone and the use of breathing apparatus.
The interstate was closed in both directions for more than 16 hours until the fire burned out.
The incident highlights the challenges fire services face in handling electric vehicle fires.