A stretch of Interstate 80 in Wyoming has been closed on Tuesday morning due to strong winds that have knocked over several tractor trailers.
The Casper Star-Tribune has reported that “at least five semi trucks” were blown over due to strong winds, blocking the westbound lanes.
The westbound lanes on Interstate 80 have been closed between Walcott and Laramie, an 80-mile closure in total. The eastbound lanes are currently closed to light, high profile vehicles.
Winds have been reported between 60 to 70 miles per hour in the area. WyoDOT has also announced a closure of U.S. Highway 30 from Laramie to Walcott.
In a recent tweet, WyoDOT said they estimate the opening time to be between 1 and 3 p.m.
I80 Exit 235, Walcott Jct – Laramie: Closed WB due to crash. Exit 235, Walcott Jct – Laramie: Closed to light, high profile veh EB. 20-D…
— Wyoming DOT (@WYDOT_I80) December 20, 2016
I80 Exit 235, Walcott Jct – Laramie: Closed WB due to crash. Estimated opening time is btwn 01:00 pm and 03:00 pm, Dec 20. Exit 235, Walc…
— Wyoming DOT (@WYDOT_I80) December 20, 2016
This is the second day in a row that strong winds have made for hellish road conditions. Yesterday, on Monday morning, wind gusts up to 77 miles per hour were recorded on Wyoming Blvd in Casper, knocking over one tractor trailer and injuring its driver.
Update (12/20/2016):
The number of overturned trucks has climbed greatly, we’ve received reports of more than 20 separate incidents.
Update (12/21/2016):
The highway has been reopened in both directions.
I80 Laramie – Cheyenne: Open to all traffic BOTH DIR. 21-DEC 06:27 #wyoroad
— Wyoming DOT (@WYDOT_I80) December 21, 2016