Blazing tanker causes Pacific Hwy closure

The Pacific Highway in northern NSW will remain closed for some hours in the
aftermath of a petrol tanker overturning and catching fire.
Fire crews have extinguished the vehicle's two tanks, loaded with 40,000 litres of
petrol, but a large amount of run off fuel is continuing to burn on Friday at 3pm
(AEST).
Fire Brigade spokesman Superintendent Ian Krimmer said the run off was into a swamp
area, next to the overturned tanker at Tintenbar, about 10km north of Ballina.
That fuel would be allowed to burn off, meaning the road would remain closed for
"quite a few hours", he said.
Two people were trapped in a car nearby after a pole burnt through and power lines
came down on the vehicle.
While they have been released safely, Sup Krimmer said the tanker driver was still
unaccounted for.
NSW Transport Management Centre has advised motorists to use an alternative route to
the Pacific Highway.
Light vehicles can use Bangalow Road.
Heavy vehicles southbound will have to be parked, but those going north can still
use the New England Highway and/or Summerland Way.