Overturned big rig closes lane on northbound 5 Freeway into Burbank

A fuel tanker that overturned today on the northbound 5 Freeway near Burbank has closed two lanes as crews begin the process of cleaning up spilled fuel, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash, which involved several vehicles, occurred shortly before noon when the Arco fuel tanker collided with another truck near the Western Avenue off-ramp. A Sigalert has since been issued for the lane closures as crews work to clear the debris and oil from the road way.

There was no immediate information on the number of people involved, but Burbank firefighters said there did not appear to be any serious injuries.

It was expected to take hours to clear the roadway.

“Find an alternate route if you can,” said Burbank Fire Capt. Peter Hendrickson.

The tanker overturned at about 11:56 a.m., spilling about 25 gallons of waste oil and diesel fuel on the dirt shoulder, according to the CHP. The other truck in the initial crash ended up resting atop a Mini Cooper.

“It’s got a small leak that’s being contained right now,” Hendrickson said, adding that the tank may have to be emptied before the truck can be lifted upright.

Additional engine oil was also spilled on the roadway, according to the CHP.

-- Veronica Rocha and Alene Tchekmedyian, Times Community News

Follow Veronica Rocha on Google+ and on Twitter: @VeronicaRochaLA.