The eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 through the Sierra Nevada is closed because an overturned tanker truck east of Donner Summit that is spilling gallons of fuel down the summit that is threatening to enter Donner Lake.
Various emergency crews are working near Summit Creek - which crosses below Old Highway 40 between Donner Lake and Donner Summit - to stop the fuel from reaching the lake, officials said at about 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Bob White, with the Truckee Meadows Water Authority, said nearly 3,000 gallons of fuel has escaped from the wrecked tanker and is filtering down the summit. The wreck ripped open three of the tanker's four fuel chambers, White said.
Bill Hauck, also with the water authority, said the area reeks heavily of diesel fuel. Crews are working furiously to stop the fuel from reaching Donner Lake, he said.
"Once we find out the extent that makes it to the lake, we'll make some decisions (on what to do next)," Hauck said, adding that laying down booms or absorbent pads are just two options that could be pursued.
According to California Highway Patrol's incident website, the tanker was driving eastbound on 80 when it overturned at about 6 a.m. Wednesday morning. The website described the roadway as slick with snow. There were no reports of injuries.
Eastbound traffic was being halted at Colfax, and motorists were being advised to consider using Highway 50 to the south. Westbound traffic was not affected.
Highway patrol estimates re-opening traffic at 11 a.m., according to the website.
Nevada County Environmental Health confirmed the accident and was responding, but offered no further details as of 9 a.m.
