A tractor-trailer erupted in flames Tuesday on Interstate 215 in Riverside, prompting a full closure of southbound lanes until the threat was mitigated.
The blaze was reported about 4:15 p.m. on southbound I-215 near the University Avenue exit, according to the California Highway Patrol.
An Amazon truck, possibly bound for a warehouse, caught fire in the engine block, and the flames quickly reached the cab, though the driver was able to safely pull to the shoulder and exit the big rig, according to the CHP.
The driver was not injured.
Riverside Fire Department crews reached the location within minutes and initiated a fire attack.
CHP officers shut down all southbound traffic at MLK Boulevard while firefighters worked to contain the blaze. A SigAlert was issued at 4:17 p.m. because of the hazard and ensuing traffic jam.
At 4:30 p.m., the fire was fully contained, according to officials at the scene.
The CHP reopened the HOV and No. 1 lanes three minutes later. Three southbound lanes remained out of service as of 4:45 p.m.
No cargo in the tractor-trailer was damaged.
The cause of the fire wasn’t immediately known.