Southbound lanes closed on I-45 after fiery 18-wheeler crash

All southbound lanes on I-45 just north of Rayford Road have been closed after an 18-wheeler burst into flames Thursday morning.

Callers reported that a large dump truck had flipped over and caught on fire. When first responders arrived, the vehicle was on its side and in flames. The Woodlands Fire Department also deployed its hazmat team to assist with a diesel spill.

In the aftermath, the northbound HOV and two additional main lanes were closed, but they have since been reopened.

John Rosas captured an image of the vehicle while it was on fire. He had just entered the freeway ramp when he felt a “boom.”

Officials are on scene assessing the damage and trying to clear the scene. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area.

Sunday afternoon, TxDOT said repairs are continuing and asphalt will be placed on multiple lanes. Eventually, the main lanes will be reopened, but the hazmat cleanup will continue to impact the frontage road lanes.

This is an active report. We’ll provide updates as they come.