Portion of Highway 99 near Selma closed following semi on fire, CHP says

SELMA, Calif. -- A portion of Highway 99 near Selma is closed off after a gas tanker semi exploded on Saturday morning, causing a massive fire.

The California Highway Patrol says there was a minor injury crash on the southbound lanes at Second Street involving a fuel tanker semi and a box truck.

Officials say that preliminary information indicates the crash happened during an unsafe lane change.

The box truck sustained major damage, and the fuel tanker became fully engulfed in flames.

The tank had approximately 8,600 gallons of fuel.

Both drivers involved are safe with minor injuries.

Caltrans says the impacted portion of the southbound lane is closed, and traffic is being detoured towards State Route 43 at the Floral Avenue Exit.

Officials say commuters should expect traffic for several hours.

This is a developing story.