Feb. 05--A tanker truck leaking fuel has closed the Dale Street exit on westbound Minnesota 36 Tuesday, Feb. 5.
The ramp was closed shortly after 8 a.m. with firefighters responding to the scene and State Patrol officers managing traffic, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Another tanker arrived shortly after the authorities and crews were seen connecting hoses to it, likely to empty the leaking tanker.
The ramp remained closed more than two hours later, after the tanker and most emergency crews were clear -- though several officials were visible inspecting the scene.
The closure added to snow-fueled commuter headaches across the state and metro area.
Crippling traffic seized major Twin Cities arteries
for hours, including southbound routes of both Interstate 35W and Interstate 35E along with westbound Interstate 94 and westbound Minnesota 36.
Nearly two inches of snow fell overnight into Tuesday morning, greasing roads and limiting visibility. By 8 a.m., more than 100 crashes were reported statewide, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
No fatal crashes were reported, but 12 involved injuries that were non-life threatening.
Joseph Lindberg can be reached at 651-228-5513. Follow him at twitter.com/JosephLindberg.
Copyright 2013 - Pioneer Press, St. Paul, Minn.
