Major I-95 Section Closed Following Gas Tanker Fire: Governor Lamont Declares State of Emergency

In southeastern Connecticut, a critical segment of I-95 will be shuttered for an indefinite period, stretching through the weekend and possibly beyond. Governor Ned Lamont announced that the closure is imperative for crews to conduct dismantling and reconstruction work on an overpass damaged during a gas tanker inferno on Thursday morning.

Lamont emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The fire from this morning’s accident caused significant structural damage to an overpass on I-95 in Norwalk and it is not safe for traffic to use the road at this time.” Consequently, he declared a state of emergency to expedite the necessary resources for an effective response.

The affected area, near exit 15 in Norwalk, will remain inaccessible to traffic for the foreseeable future. Governor Lamont urged caution, advising, “I strongly encourage everyone to avoid this area for at least the next few days while the highway remains closed and to stay alert for updates.”

Norwalk, a bustling city with over 90,000 residents, sits approximately 30 miles southwest of New Haven, Connecticut, and about 40 miles northeast of New York City. This closure echoes a similar incident in downtown Los Angeles, where a section of I-10 was shut down for eight days earlier this year due to fire-related damage beneath an overpass.

As communities brace for the impact of the I-95 closure in southeastern Connecticut, the state government and local authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate disruptions and ensure public safety. While the situation remains fluid, residents and commuters are urged to stay informed about updates and heed official guidance regarding alternate routes and travel advisories. As reconstruction efforts progress, the collective resilience of the affected region will undoubtedly shine through, underscoring the unwavering spirit of resilience in the face of adversity.