Semi-truck fire in Carpinteria forces temporary evacuations

A semi-truck caught on fire early Tuesday morning in Carpinteria forcing some people to evacuate their homes due to hazardous chemical concerns.

According to California Highway Patrol, the fire was reported at 2:34 a.m. on Via Real and Santa Ynez Avenue. It’s an area already used as a detour due to overnight construction on U.S. Highway 101.

The incident created major traffic delays for early-morning commuters who were previously diverted from Highway 101.

Hazmat crews determined the material from the semi to be non-hazardous, officials said.

Residents are safe but the road remains closed while crews investigate. CHP is rerouting traffic to the Casitas Pass onramp to Highway 101 northbound.

Check back for updates.