Key Takeaways
- Two right lanes of Interstate 90 are closed at Milepost 36 due to a debris slide
- The slide occurred at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday and has caused erosion along the edge of the roadway
- Crews are assessing the hillside and drivers are advised to use caution and prepare for delays
- This is the third slide in a week to affect the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90
- The region is expected to experience additional rainfall, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding
Introduction to the Incident
A debris slide has closed two right lanes of Interstate 90 at Milepost 36, near North Bend, Washington. The incident occurred at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. The left two lanes remain open, but drivers are advised to use caution and prepare for delays. This is the third slide in a week to affect the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90, causing disruptions to traffic and raising concerns about the safety of the road.
The Cause of the Slide
The slide happened down the hill alongside the freeway, leading to erosion along the edge of the roadway, according to the Washington State Patrol. The exact cause of the slide is not yet known, but it is likely related to the heavy rainfall in the region. The Washington State Patrol has reported that crews are on the way to assess the hillside and determine the best course of action to ensure the safety of the road. The assessment will help to identify the underlying causes of the slide and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time that a debris slide has affected the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90. On December 8, a large amount of debris came down the hillside at milepost 34, closing the freeway overnight. Just two days later, on December 10, a slide blocked the freeway from Snoqualmie to North Bend for over 24 hours. These incidents highlight the risks associated with heavy rainfall and the importance of monitoring the road conditions to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
Weather Conditions
The slide on Monday comes as another atmospheric river takes aim at the region, bringing additional rainfall and increasing the chances of already full rivers flooding. The risk of landslides is also raised, and drivers are advised to exercise caution when traveling through the area. The KING 5 First Alert Weather Team has activated a First Alert for this weather event, which could affect lives, property, or travel in the Pacific Northwest region. The team will provide the latest information to keep the public safe and informed about the weather conditions.
Impact on Traffic
The closure of two right lanes of Interstate 90 is expected to cause delays for drivers traveling eastbound over Snoqualmie Pass. Drivers are advised to check the latest traffic conditions before embarking on their journey and to consider alternative routes if possible. The Washington State Department of Transportation and the Washington State Patrol are working to assess the situation and reopen the lanes as soon as it is safe to do so. In the meantime, drivers are urged to use caution and follow the instructions of traffic management officials to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Conclusion
The debris slide on Interstate 90 is a reminder of the risks associated with heavy rainfall and the importance of monitoring road conditions to prevent accidents. The incident highlights the need for drivers to exercise caution and follow the instructions of traffic management officials to ensure their safety and the safety of others. As the region experiences additional rainfall, it is essential to stay informed about the weather conditions and road closures to plan your journey accordingly. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, drivers can minimize the risks associated with traveling during adverse weather conditions.
