A semitrailer that carried 8,400 gallons of fuel exploded Thursday afternoon on U.S. Highway 160, closing the highway west of Cortez.

U.S. 160 is closed at the U.S. 160 and U.S. 491 intersection for westbound traffic. The road is closed for eastbound traffic at the U.S. 160 and Colorado 41 intersection.

The Colorado Department of Transportation closed the eastbound and westbound lanes from mile marker 5 to mile marker 18.2, between U.S. Highway 491 and Colorado Highway 41. The truck has exploded several times, and flames could be seen from a mile away, according to a radio report.

U.S. 160 is closed at the U.S. 160 and U.S. 491 intersection for westbound traffic. The road is closed for eastbound traffic at the U.S. 160 and Colorado 41 intersection.

Firefighters were allowing the truck to burn to ensure the workers’ safety.

They are waiting for a fire suppression foam trailer to arrive to help them fight the fire.

Expect traffic delays as authorities work on the scene.