A tractor-trailer fire shut down southbound I-71/75 near the Mall Road exit in Florence on Tuesday morning, Oct. 13. All lanes and ramps reopened by 2:45 p.m., according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer. No injuries were reported, Boone County dispatch told Fox 19.
Boone County dispatch received a call about the blaze around 9:08 a.m., WLWT reported.
Mall Road exit blocked into afternoon
As of noon Tuesday, all southbound travel lanes and the Mall Road exit off-ramp remained blocked, with only the left shoulder open, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The semi had not been removed.
KYTC said inspectors would review the pavement, barriers and ramps for damage. The agency said the roadway would not be cleared for several hours and urged drivers to find alternate routes.
Boone County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) spokesman Phillip Ridgell told Fox 19 that EMA officials respond to large semi fires because commercial trucking accidents can pose a variety of hazards. Ridgell said officials determined there were no such hazards in this incident.
The fire's cause has not been announced. The driver's status had not been confirmed as of Tuesday afternoon.
What drivers should know
KYTC said it would post updates on social media once all lanes and ramps reopen. Drivers heading southbound through Florence should plan for delays or use alternate routes until the agency confirms the all-clear.
Residents can report traffic hazards or get road condition updates through the KYTC District 6 office at 859-341-2700.
