AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A possible chemical leak on Columbia Nitrogen Drive is causing major traffic backups on I-520 Eastbound, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say that around 5:23 a.m., they responded to 1419 Columbia Nitrogen Drive following a report of a possible chemical leak.

Callers have reported a strong smell of ammonia near the scene.

The affected area has been restricted to through traffic while emergency personnel assess the situation.

Deputies are blocking the south portion of the intersection at Columbia Nitrogen Drive and Laney Walker Boulevard.

Select cars have been allowed through if they are parking at factories or businesses located between the police and fire units on scene.

No confirmed injuries have been reported at this time.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area and use alternate routes as deputies are assisting with traffic as the situation remains active.

Additional updates will be provided once the roadway is deemed safe for travel, according to the sheriff’s office.

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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Augusta marked St. Patrick’s Day with its 49th annual parade.

This year, the Irish American Heritage Society routed the procession down Broad Street twice to increase foot traffic for businesses along the corridor.

Your Audrey Dickherber was on the ground throughout the day, covering the crowds celebrating the holiday.

Harlem Marching Band heads to Fifth Avenue

While Augusta held its own celebration, the Harlem Marching Band marked St. Patrick’s Day in New York City, marching in that city’s 265th St. Patrick’s Day Parade down Fifth Avenue.

The band marched alongside the County Westmeath Association of New York Heritage Group and was one of four Georgia bands selected to participate.

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