The MacKay Bridge is now open after some tense moments during rush hour.
The bridge was shut down Wednesday afternoon a suspected chemical spill in the area. However, when emergency crews arrived they found a container of dry picric acid.
“Members of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency initially responded to secure the scene and determined that a chemical spill had not occurred. Instead, firefighters found a 250 ml container of picric acid that was dry. In a dry state, this chemical is highly explosive.” city officials explained on X following the incident.
“Given the nature of the chemical, Halifax Regional Police have deployed members of their Explosive Disposal Unit who are currently at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography to determine if the chemical can be safely removed and when the evacuation order for the area can be lifted.”
Emergency responders had to evacuate offices in the nearby area as a precaution.
It created gridlock as it happened and the bridge re-opened around 6 p.m. when it was determined to be safe.
The city sent an emergency alert around 4:22 p.m., telling people they have to stay at least 250 metres away from the institute.
Nova Scotia Power shut off electricity in the area, but it was turned back on around 6 p.m. for those impacted.
No injuries occurred in the disposal of the chemical or from any staff at the institute.
An emergency alert was issued after a combustible chemical spill at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography on Jan. 22, 2025. (Jacob Moore/Acadia Broadcasting)
