MCPHERSON, Kan. (KAKE) — A semi-truck hauling thousands of pounds of hydrochloric acid overturned Tuesday morning in McPherson, prompting evacuations, road closures and a large hazmat response. Officials later confirmed that only about 20 gallons of the chemical actually leaked, far less than originally feared.

The rollover happened just after 9 a.m. at the intersection of Kansas Avenue and the Old 81 Bypass. McPherson Fire Chief Chad Mayberry said the semi was carrying 34,000 pounds of hydrochloric acid inside large storage totes.

“When crews arrived on scene, they found a semi trailer that was attempting to turn west onto US 56,” Mayberry said. “The product was in storage totes, and when the trailer laid over, the acid started leaking.”

Residents at a nearby motel said they woke up

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