Northbound lanes have been opened; southbound is expected to be closed for an extended period, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. (Photo: FHP) 
Last Updated: Tuesday, July 12, 2016, 2:24 PM
ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA --
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge has partially reopened after a tanker fire.
NB lanes reopened, SB remains closed
Tanker's tire blew out, caught fire
Driver escaped crash with minor injuries
Troopers said a tractor trailer fuel tanker's tire blew out on the southbound side of the bridge Tuesday and subsequently caught fire.
Northbound lanes have been opened; southbound is expected to be closed for an extended period, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers said the vehicle is burning on the Dick Misener approach to the main part of the bridge. A large plume of dark smoke has been billowing into the sky near the bridge.
The vehicle is carrying about 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel, officials said.
The driver was able to escape the crash with minor injuries, according to FHP.
No injuries have been reported.
Pinellas County Fire is on scene and has the fire contained.
For traffic traveling north, traffic is being diverted at Exit 1 off of I-275.
This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.