PADUCAH, KY (Feb. 23, 2022) – If you’re wondering, “why is traffic stopped on I-24 West today?”, the Kentucky State Police are reporting a significant multi-vehicle crash that is currently blocking all westbound lanes near the 30-mile marker, close to the Tennessee River Bridge. This major incident, which occurred on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, involves a staggering 11 vehicles, creating substantial traffic disruptions in the region.
What Happened on I-24 West?
The incident, confirmed by both Kentucky State Police and Marshall County 911 Dispatch, is a large-scale crash involving multiple vehicles. Among the 11 vehicles caught up in the collision, a significant number – eight – are SEMI trucks. Adding to the complexity of the situation, one of these trucks was transporting livestock, leading to a temporary spill of approximately two dozen cattle onto the median. While initial reports suggest all cattle have been accounted for, authorities are still conducting thorough checks to ensure no animals remain unaccounted for.
This disruption is located on I-24 West, specifically between Exit 31 for KY 453 Grand Rivers and Exit 27 for U.S. 62 Calvert City, near the Marshall-Livingston County Line. This is a critical corridor, and the blockage is causing significant delays.
Current Traffic Situation and Detour Information
As of the latest update, both westbound lanes of I-24 are completely blocked at the 30-mile marker. Eastbound traffic is experiencing congestion with only one lane open and moving slowly through the affected area. Motorists heading westbound are being diverted at Exit 31. The official detour route directs drivers to take KY 453 South and then U.S. 62 West to rejoin I-24 West at Exit 27. Significant delays are expected along this detour route as well.
Traffic alert graphic for I-24 Westbound closure near Tennessee River Bridge due to multi-vehicle crash
Estimated Time to Reopen I-24 West
Following the crash, a crash reconstruction investigation was promptly completed. This allowed for the removal of some vehicles from the scene. However, recovery teams are still actively working to remove the remaining SEMI trucks, a process that is taking considerable time.
Current estimations suggest that I-24 Westbound is expected to remain blocked for approximately two more hours from 8:45 a.m. CST. This puts the estimated time for clearance at around 10:30 a.m. CST. However, this is an estimated time, and could be subject to change depending on the complexities of vehicle recovery and any unforeseen issues.
Stay Updated on I-24 Traffic
For the latest real-time updates on this I-24 traffic situation, and for future traffic advisories in KYTC District 1 counties, motorists are encouraged to:
- Sign up for email alerts for KYTC District 1 counties at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/KYTC/signup/13651.
- Follow KYTC Highway District 1’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kytcdistrict1.
- Use navigation apps and websites such as goky.ky.gov, waze.com, or the WAZE App for real-time traffic navigation.
Motorists in the area are advised to exercise caution and plan for significant delays if traveling on I-24 West near the Tennessee River Bridge. Continue to monitor traffic updates for the most current information.
