Semi truck crash blocks I-5 in DuPont, causing huge 11+ mile backup
DUPONT, Wash. - Traffic on I-5 was backed up for more than 11 miles following a semi rollover crash near DuPont Tuesday afternoon. The road has since reopened.
Officials say a semi truck was heading southbound from Mounts Road, when a driver merged in front of him and suddenly slowed down. To avoid hitting the car, the semi driver swerved to the side and hit the barrier. The crash tipped the semi truck onto its side and spilled massive, 7,500-pound rolls of paper onto the freeway.
Southbound traffic was reduced to two lanes, clogging traffic for miles. Around 6:30 p.m., crews were finally able to set the semi truck upright, and opened up an additional lane.
Washington State Department of Transportation reports the backups stretched as far north as SR 512 in Lakewood. Tracking the distance on Google Maps puts the 11-mile stretch of traffic at more than an hour and a half to get through.
Officials warn drivers to "pack your patience."
RELATED: Serious injuries in SR 101 crash near Leland
READ MORE: WSP: Pierce, Thurston County fatal crashes increased by 36% in 2021
Get breaking news alerts in the FREE FOX 13 Seattle app. Download for Apple iOS or Android. And sign up for BREAKING NEWS emails delivered straight to your inbox.
Stay connected with FOX 13 News on all platforms:
DOWNLOAD: FOX 13 News and Weather Apps
WATCH: FOX 13 News Live
SUBSCRIBE: FOX 13 on YouTube
DAILY BRIEF: Sign Up For Our Newsletter
FOLLOW: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram