Overturned tractor trailer spills liquid oxygen, prompts I-83 to be closed

A northbound tractor-trailer hauling liquid oxygen overturned on Interstate 83 early Saturday morning, prompting an evacuation and closure of the highway for much of the day.

UPDATE: Driver charged in I-83 liquid oxygen Hazmat spill, police say

The tanker truck was just approaching the Glen Rock exit of the interstate when for some unknown reason the driver lost control and swerved to the right. The truck took out about 50 feet of guardrail before hitting an embankment on the side of the exit ramp and rolling over.

The driver suffered minor injuries and was released after being treated at York Hospital, authorities said.

The crash, reported shortly after 6 a.m., prompted emergency officials to evacuate the area around the exit, which is not heavily developed. The highway was closed between the Loganville and Shrewsbury exists for much of the day and was finally reopened completely at about 6:30 p.m.

Earlier today,state police said the spill involved liquid nitrogen. However, they clarified that the substance was liquid oxygen around noon.

More: ‘Dangerous corridor’ on 83: Why so many crashes?

Loganville Fire Chief Brian Ream said, "We've had accidents here before. But it's been a long time since we had something of this magnitude."

The crash snarled traffic from Loganville to Shrewsbury as traffic was diverted from the interstate.

Liquid oxygen is a cryogenic liquid that is extremely cold according to University of Florida Environmental Health and Safety. Exposure to liquid oxygen can lead to severe burns because of its cold temperature.

More: Listen to York County 911 scanner

Also of interest, a gallery of photos below: