Ohio Rockfall Closes Southbound I-77 in Tuscarawas County Near US-36 as Crews Work to Clear Debris Near Glasgow

Tuscarawas County, Ohio — An unusual roadway incident in eastern Ohio has forced the closure of southbound Interstate 77 near US-36 in Tuscarawas County after a rockfall blocked part of the highway, according to transportation officials monitoring the situation.

Authorities say the incident occurred near Glasgow along the I-77 corridor, where falling rocks created hazardous conditions for drivers. As a result, southbound lanes of Interstate 77 have been shut down while cleanup operations take place, and northbound traffic has been reduced to a single lane. Officials have not yet provided an estimate for when the roadway will fully reopen.

Rockfall Forces Major Interstate Closure in Tuscarawas County

Transportation crews responded after reports of rocks falling onto Interstate 77 near the US-36 area, prompting immediate safety measures for motorists traveling through the region.

The affected stretch of highway lies between communities such as Newcomerstown, Glasgow, and Port Washington, where the interstate runs through hilly terrain that can occasionally produce rockfall hazards. Because of the debris on the roadway, southbound traffic was completely halted, allowing road crews and safety officials to begin clearing the area.

Meanwhile, northbound drivers are being directed through a reduced one-lane section, which may cause delays for travelers moving through eastern Ohio overnight. Officials with Ohio’s traffic monitoring system confirmed the incident and urged drivers to remain cautious when approaching the affected corridor.

Cleanup Crews Working to Remove Debris From Interstate 77

Maintenance crews have been deployed to the scene to remove rock debris and inspect the area for additional hazards.

Rockfalls can occur when loose rock formations along road cuts or hillsides shift and fall onto nearby highways, sometimes after periods of weather changes, erosion, or natural instability.

Because safety inspections are often required after such events, transportation officials say the duration of the closure remains uncertain.

Crews must ensure that no additional rocks are at risk of falling before reopening the affected lanes.

Drivers Urged to Use Caution Near the Closure Area

Motorists traveling along Interstate 77 through Tuscarawas County are being advised to expect delays and possible traffic backups as cleanup operations continue.

Drivers moving through the region near US-36, Glasgow, and surrounding communities should remain alert for traffic control measures and reduced speeds.

Officials also recommend that travelers:

• Allow extra travel time when driving through the affected area
• Watch for lane closures and traffic control personnel
• Follow posted detour or slowdown instructions near the work zone

Because only one northbound lane remains open, traffic conditions may fluctuate as crews continue their work.

Transportation authorities have not yet announced a timeline for reopening the southbound lanes, and updates will likely depend on how quickly crews can safely remove debris and inspect the surrounding hillside.

For continuing updates on major roadway incidents, transportation alerts, and regional news developments across the United States, readers can follow the latest reports on NapervilleLocal.com.