A major transport artery in New South Wales was brought to a standstill over the weekend after a truck laden with lithium-ion batteries erupted in flames, creating a significant toxic hazard.
Highway Shut Down Amid Toxic Cloud Fears
The incident occurred on the Hume Highway near Yass, north of Canberra, shortly after 9am on Saturday. The two-trailer truck was transporting approximately 15 tonnes of lithium-ion batteries, equating to around 50 individual units each weighing 300kg, in its B-trailer.
Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Michael Jay confirmed that crews acted swiftly to detach the truck's front cabin and a smaller second trailer from the burning rear section, preventing the fire from spreading further. Due to the severe risk of a toxic vapour cloud, emergency services established a 700-metre public exclusion zone around the blaze.
"Let It Burn" Strategy Adopted
This precaution led to the complete closure of the Hume Highway in both directions for over six hours, with traffic diverted through contraflow lanes in Yass. Superintendent Jay indicated that firefighters were likely to allow the fire to burn out under controlled conditions, citing insufficient water supplies to extinguish it effectively and challenges in preventing contaminated runoff from reaching nearby waterways.
The decision reflects the unique dangers posed by lithium-ion battery fires. As highlighted in a state inquiry hearing just days earlier, on Monday, such blazes can eject a cocktail of toxic gases, presenting a serious health risk to both the public and responding firefighters.
Growing Scourge of Battery Fires
Authorities have warned that disruptions in the area could last for several days and have advised travellers to consider delaying their journeys. No injuries have been confirmed, and NSW Police stated the fire is not being treated as suspicious.
This incident underscores a rapidly escalating problem. Fire and Rescue NSW has labelled lithium-ion batteries the "fastest-growing fire risk" in the state since 2024. The batteries, commonly found in e-bikes, e-scooters, and various household appliances, have been linked to three fatal incidents and countless fires across NSW, primarily due to overheating or physical damage.
The state government is increasingly taking action to regulate the handling and disposal of these energy units in response to the mounting threat.
