A tanker truck carrying propane caught fire Monday morning on Highway 49 near Piney Woods, officials said.
According to Rankin County Emergency Operation Center Director Mike Word, the fire started when the truck had a blowout. That tire caught fire and it spread to other tires, endangering the fully loaded propane tanker.
First responders arrived quickly and were able to contain the fire, but stayed to keep water on the tank to cool it until it was safe to tow away. For a short time, northbound traffic was rerouted into the southbound lane when 49 north was shut down.
Units on scene say the driver is ok.
Vehicle fire on US 49 past Taylor Hill Rd in Rankin County has northbound traffic delayed. Map Impact: https://t.co/lcQyLrPfo7 #MShwys
— MDOT (@MississippiDOT) November 22, 2021