A chemical leak has closed all southbound lanes of SH-146 after Texas on Wednesday afternoon, according to Houston TranStar.
The incident was reported at 1:15 p.m. and the area has been closed off from the public for several hours.
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Videos shows white smoke billowing from the 18-wheeler.
Traffic alert: SH-146 southbound after Texas, complete freeway closure. Fire and hazmat are on scene. They are pulling vehicles back until they can ascertain what the truck is loaded with. It is smoking at this time. Avoid the area or find an alternate route. @HCSOTexas… pic.twitter.com/8Muqtunfgi
— Terry Garza, LT (@HCSO_TerryGarza) October 8, 2025
An 18-wheeler, owned by Depot Connect International, experienced a chemical leak after one of the three seals on the truck broke.
The chemical has been identified as Piperazine, which is corrosive and when in contact, can irritate the skin and eyes. High exposure can cause weakness, blurred vision, and tremors, reduce coordination and balance, and trigger seizures. Breathing Piperazine can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing.
Depot Connect International has sent a hazmat team to clean the area. Baytown Fire’s hazmat team also on scene.
Baytown officials said they are monitoring the air, but no signs of impact so far. No shelter in place order has been issued.