Over 50 Vehicles Involved in Massive Pileup on I-70 Near Terre Haute, Indiana as Winter Storm Creates Treacherous Conditions

INDIANA — A major 50-plus vehicle pileup has brought westbound Interstate 70 near Terre Haute to a complete standstill Saturday afternoon as a powerful winter storm sweeps across the Midwest, creating whiteout conditions and dangerously slick roads.

Authorities have shut down the westbound lanes indefinitely while emergency crews work to clear the tangled wreckage of semis, passenger cars, and service trucks stretched across multiple lanes of the snow-covered highway.

Heavy Snow and Poor Visibility Blamed for Chain-Reaction Crash

The Indiana State Police confirmed that low visibility and icy conditions were major contributors to the crash, which began as several vehicles lost control on the snowy stretch of I-70 before triggering a chain reaction involving dozens more.

Live coverage by meteorologist Max Velocity showed extensive congestion along the highway, with multiple emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and first responders on scene. Snow continued to fall heavily in the area throughout the afternoon, making cleanup efforts more difficult.

“Visibility dropped to near zero at times,” a weather analyst reported during the broadcast. “Drivers couldn’t see the brake lights ahead of them until it was too late.”

Interstate 70 Closed in Both Directions for Hours

As of early afternoon, traffic cameras showed miles of backed-up vehicles between Terre Haute and the Illinois state line. The westbound lanes remain closed, and the eastbound side is moving slowly as authorities work to clear debris and assist stranded motorists.

Officials have urged drivers to avoid travel across western Indiana until conditions improve, warning that additional snow showers and freezing drizzle could make roadways even more hazardous through the evening.

The National Weather Service issued advisories across parts of Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa, where snow rates of 1–2 inches per hour were observed earlier in the day.

Emergency Responders Working Around the Clock

Local fire departments, EMS teams, and highway crews have been assisting motorists trapped in the pileup. Early reports suggest several injuries, though officials have not yet released details on the number or severity.

Tow trucks have been dispatched from multiple nearby counties to help remove vehicles involved in the collision. Cleanup operations could take most of the evening due to continued snowfall and poor traction on the icy roadway.

Residents Urged to Stay Off Roads

Authorities are urging residents to remain at home and allow crews to clear the interstate safely. “If you don’t absolutely need to travel, stay off the roads,” officials advised. “Visibility remains dangerously low, and snow is expected to continue through tonight.”

This winter storm marks one of the most disruptive early-season weather events in the Midwest this year, with heavy snow also impacting Des Moines, Madison, and Chicago.

For continued updates on this developing situation and other winter weather impacts across the Midwest, visit NapervilleLocal.com for live coverage and local alerts.