BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa. -- A massive inferno shut down the Pennsylvania turnpike Tuesday afternoon. Chopper 11 was live over the fire.

A tractor-trailer hauling magnesium pellets was involved in an accident near mile marker 142 in Bedford County.

Officials said while beginning to tow the big rig, they noticed smoke. Flames then ignited and engulfed the trailer.

A magnesium fire cannot be treated with water or other fire-fighting chemicals; a special type of dry sand is needed.

Magnesium is toxic when it burns. Therefore, areas near the turnpike were evacuated for a short time.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said the when magnesium gets wet, it produces a hydrogen gas that could explode. The rainfall from Tuesday afternoon's storms is creating an explosion hazard.

State police closed the turnpike at New Stanton shortly after 1:30 p.m.

Officials said it is unclear when the roadway will reopen.

Police suggest using this detour when traveling eastbound:

Take the turnpike to Route 119 to Route 40 east to Route 68 east to Interstate 70 back to the turnpike.

Watch Channel 11 News for continuing coverage on this story.

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