A truck carrying 15 tonnes of lithium ion batteries caught fire on the Hume Highway near Yass, New South Wales, on Saturday just after 9 am. The two-trailer truck was transporting about 50 batteries, each weighing 300 kg, in its rear trailer. Fire and Rescue NSW said crews removed the truck’s front cabin and smaller trailer before they also caught alight. Superintendent Michael Jay explained that firefighters closed the highway in both directions due to the risk of a vapour cloud and dangerous toxic gases released by lithium ion fires. Authorities blocked public access within 700 meters of the blaze. Traffic was redirected to contraflow lanes through Yass. The highway remained closed for at least six hours, with disruptions expected to continue for several days. Firefighters said they might allow the fire to burn out because there is not enough water to put it out and that runoff could contaminate nearby waterways. No injuries have been reported. NSW Police said the fire is not being treated as suspicious. Overheating and damage often cause lithium ion battery failures, which have been linked to fires and three fatal incidents in the state. Since 2024, Fire and Rescue NSW calls lithium ion batteries the "fastest-growing fire risk". The government is increasing regulations on handling and disposal to improve safety.