Boyd County, KY – On Thursday evening, deputies with the Boyd County Sheriff’s Office reported a sizable spill of a suspected oily substance at the intersection of Interstate 64 and Kentucky Route 180. The spill, estimated at a couple hundred gallons, prompted an immediate response from emergency officials and a temporary shutdown of key travel lanes.
Location and lanes affected
The spill occurred near mile marker 185 on I‑64. According to the sheriff’s office social‑media alert, the following sections were impacted:
- Eastbound turn lane onto Interstate 64 at mile marker 185
- Both northbound lanes of Route 180
- Inside/left lane of Route 180 southbound
Drivers attempting to use the 185 eastbound offramp were limited to turning onto Route 180 southbound only.
Safety guidance for motorists
County deputies urged all motorists to avoid the affected area and seek alternate routes while crews work to contain and clean the spill. The recommended detour involves using nearby interchanges and local roads to bypass the closure. Residents were asked to stay alert for updated signage and follow any directions from law‑enforcement personnel on site.
Response and cleanup efforts
Emergency responders arrived promptly after the spill was reported. Teams from the Boyd County Sheriff’s Office, the Kentucky State Police, and local fire and environmental units coordinated to assess the substance, secure the scene, and begin remediation. While the exact composition of the fluid has not been confirmed, officials described it as “oily” and are treating it as a potential environmental hazard.
Deputies indicated that a full cleanup could take several hours, depending on weather conditions and the extent of the contamination. They promised to provide updates as the roadway is cleared and traffic can safely resume normal flow.
Impact on travel and commerce
Interstate 64 is a major east‑west corridor through eastern Kentucky, linking communities such as Ashland, Catlettsburg, and the broader Appalachian region. The temporary lane closures are expected to cause delays for commuters, freight trucks, and travelers heading toward neighboring states. Local businesses near the interchange have been advised to monitor traffic patterns and adjust operations as needed.
What residents can do
Motorists are encouraged to check real‑time traffic apps, local radio stations, and the Boyd County Sheriff’s Office social‑media channels for the latest information. Those with urgent travel needs should consider alternative routes, such as using US‑23 north‑south or the nearby I‑64 westbound on‑ramps, to avoid the affected stretch.
Authorities reminded the public that safety remains the top priority and asked anyone who observes additional spills or hazardous material incidents to report them immediately to local law‑enforcement.
Looking ahead
The Boyd County Sheriff’s Office will issue a follow‑up bulletin once the spill has been fully contained and the roadway reopened. In the meantime, residents are thanked for their patience and cooperation as emergency crews work to protect both motorists and the environment.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
