Crashes snarl traffic on Interstate 90
Snow and ice on Interstate 90 led to multiple truck crashes and rollovers on Tuesday, causing backups that stretched for more than 11 miles.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Jeff Merrill said there were at least nine semi trucks that crashed or rolled over, including one that hit a trooper and another that landed on top of a car near North Bend. There were no serious injuries in either incident.
"The situation is as bad as I've ever seen it in my 20 some years," Merrill said.
The crashes blocked the interstate and forced to the transportation department to stop traffic for several hours while crews worked to clear the wrecks amid ice and falling snow.
One lane of westbound traffic was opened about 2 p.m., but it was expected to take hours for the backup to dissipate.
Eastside Fire and Rescue spokeswoman Josie Williams said that firefighters responded to multiple crashes and spinouts, and she urged drivers to use extreme caution on the interstate and avoid driving if at all possible.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Jeff Merrill said there were at least nine semi trucks that crashed or rolled over, including one that hit a trooper and another that landed on top of a car near North Bend. There were no serious injuries in either incident.
"The situation is as bad as I've ever seen it in my 20 some years," Merrill said.
The crashes blocked the interstate and forced to the transportation department to stop traffic for several hours while crews worked to clear the wrecks amid ice and falling snow.
One lane of westbound traffic was opened about 2 p.m., but it was expected to take hours for the backup to dissipate.
Eastside Fire and Rescue spokeswoman Josie Williams said that firefighters responded to multiple crashes and spinouts, and she urged drivers to use extreme caution on the interstate and avoid driving if at all possible.