Interstate 55 in South-Central Illinois was shut down in both directions Monday after multiple vehicles crashed and piled up amid a dust storm.
The Illinois State Police said the initial crash occurred around 11:40 a.m. in Montgomery County. Authorities shut down I-55 from milepost 52 to 80 in both directions. Traffic was diverted onto the frontage road and motorists were urged to take alternative routes.
A dust storm caused a massive pile-up on I-55 in South-Central Illinois Monday. (@gwith99)
Divernon City Hall was being used as a reunification post for families of those involved in the crash.
The National Weather Service said the combination of newly plowed fields and gusty northwest winds had generated a dust storm in the area, reducing drivers’ visibility.
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Videos and photos shared on social media showed a mangled mess of tractor–trailers piled up on the freeway, with a toxic mix of smoke and dust billowing into the sky as first responders arrived on the scene.
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The number of injuries, potential fatalities, and vehicles involved is not clear at this time.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
