Video shows California highway blast as 8,600-gallon fuel tanker erupts in flames

SELMA, CALIFORNIA: A fuel tanker carrying about 8,600 gallons of fuel exploded after crashing into a box truck on Highway 99 on Saturday, August 8. Dramatic video shows towering flames and thick black smoke as emergency crews rushed to the scene.

The crash happened in the southbound lanes near Second Street in Fresno County, according to the California Highway Patrol. The massive fire forced officials to shut down part of the highway as emergency crews responded.

Fuel tanker erupts in flames after Highway 99 crash

Video from the scene shows the tanker completely engulfed in flames as firefighters and emergency personnel responded to the massive blaze.

The box truck involved in the crash suffered major damage.

Despite the severity of the incident, both drivers reportedly escaped with only minor injuries, according to ABC30 News.

Officials believe an unsafe lane change may have led to the collision.

8,600 gallons of fuel intensify California highway fire

The tanker was carrying approximately 8,600 gallons of fuel when it crashed, turning the highway into a major emergency scene.

The footage shows flames rising high above the tanker, with thick black smoke visible as crews worked at the site.

The crash prompted an immediate response from firefighters and other emergency personnel while authorities dealt with the damaged vehicles and the fire.

Highway 99 closed as traffic is diverted

The affected section of the southbound lanes was shut down, according to Caltrans. Traffic was diverted toward State Route 43 at the Floral Avenue Exit.

Drivers traveling through the area were expected to face delays for several hours as crews responded to the crash.

As of 12:45 pm Saturday, the southbound lanes of State Route 99 near Second Street remained closed.

The California Highway Patrol was contacted for further comment about the incident.