A gasoline tanker fire prompted a large emergency response Saturday near the Hope Hull exit in Montgomery County, forcing evacuations, traffic diversions, and the closure of an Interstate 65 exit ramp.

According to the Snowdoun Volunteer Fire Department, the fire occurred on the on-ramp to Interstate 65 from U.S. 31 near the Hope Hull exit. Motorists were urged to avoid the area as firefighters and other emergency personnel responded to the dangerous situation.

Authorities temporarily stopped and diverted traffic while crews worked to contain the blaze. Nearby businesses were evacuated as a precaution due to the intensity of the fire and the hazardous cargo involved.

Officials said the tanker was carrying approximately 9,000 gallons of gasoline. Before flames fully consumed the trailer, the driver was able to disconnect the truck’s cab from the tanker and safely move away from the scene. No injuries have been reported.

Montgomery Fire/Rescue responded as part of a mutual aid request from the Pintlala Volunteer Fire Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Upon arrival, firefighters found the tanker fully engulfed in flames.

Hazardous materials teams, including HazMat 60 and HazMat 62, responded alongside suppression units to protect nearby structures and prevent the fire from spreading. The Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency, Alabama Department of Transportation, and the local power company also assisted with the incident.

Although the fire has since been extinguished, traffic impacts continue.

According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the southbound Exit 164 ramp from Interstate 65 onto U.S. 31 in Montgomery County remains blocked and will stay closed for an undetermined amount of time while crews continue cleanup operations and assess the area.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area if possible