Traffic Alert: Jackknifed Semi Backs Up Busy Minnesota Freeway
Faribault, MN (KROC-AM News)- Traffic is down to one lane due to a jackknifed semi truck on a busy Minnesota interstate.
The major traffic disruption follows Southern Minnesota’s first major snowstorm in several weeks that made travel difficult on several of the state’s major roads.
The State Patrol responded to more than 300 crashes during the winter blast between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning. MnDOT says a jackknifed semi is blocking the left lane on Southbound I-35 about three miles north of Faribault.
Images captured by a MnDOT traffic camera in the area showed the back end of the semi’s trailer blocking the traffic lane. The cab and rest of the trailer was in the median with the cab facing north. It's since been cleared from the left shoulder.
A second semi is also off the road in the right-hand ditch in the same area. Officials are allowing southbound drivers to navigate the area, however the lane closure is prompting a lengthy backup.
Motorists are encouraged to see alternative routes until first responders can clear the scene. The lane closure is tentatively scheduled to end around 12:30 p.m. Thursday.
It’s unknown if any injuries occurred. MnDOT says I-35 through southern Minnesota is described as partially covered with snow and ice as of late Thursday morning.
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Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns
