(Walnut, Iowa) – Multiple agencies responded to a hazardous materials spill Monday evening in Pottawattamie County. According to Pottawattamie County Emergency Management Specialist Michell Bose, the incident occurred on the Exit Ramp from Interstate 80 westbound to Antique City Drive (Exit 46/Walnut), at around 5:30-p.m., Monday. The driver of a transport truck noticed something leaking from the cargo area, and pulled off the Interstate. The leaking material turned out to be Hydrogen Peroxide – a colorless liquid with a slightly sharp odor. Hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, skin, and throat.

Emergency crews from Walnut and Avoca were first on the scene. Other responding agencies included the Council Bluffs Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa State Patrol and the Iowa Department of Transportation. Michell Bose said the leak was quickly contained to the shoulder of the exit ramp, through the use of absorbent booms.

The exit ramp was closed-off to traffic while the spill was being cleaned-up. No injuries were reported. Emergency crews remained on the scene for about three-hours before the exit ramp was re-opened to traffic.