NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Around 3:00 p.m. Monday, Nashville Fire Department crews were working to extinguish a semi-truck fire near exit 240A and I-40 W.
Officials say the truck was carrying radioactive waste isolated in its packaging — meaning there is no longer an immediate threat — but the process of clearing the area took much longer.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation says I-40 East has repoened, and Westbound traffic along I-40 has reopened as well.
Westbound traffic on I40 has reopened.
— Nashville Fire Dept (@NashvilleFD) February 5, 2024
NFD crews have all gone through the decontamination process and the scene is being turned over to @myTDOT @THPNashville and @TennesseeEMA No readings were found indicating any levels of any hazards present. pic.twitter.com/rvWaAQRky3
NFD says they worked to cover areas of the semi truck with tarp and move it about 300 feet to clear the lane. Tennessee Highway Patrol, commercial inspectors and the shipping company came to inspect and make sure the truck is safe to continue travel from the scene once it is moved.

You'll love her and you'll love to hate her! Meet Trashley: the bad girl of Nashville littering. She stars in a new campaign that's a throwback to an anti-litter movement from years past. Her role has been reimagined by NDOT as a fast-paced, Dukes of Hazzard-style wrecking ball of a lady. You'll find yourself cracking up as you meet the actress behind Trashley and hear how she landed the role of Queen of Trash.
-Rebecca Schleicher