Over 100 Vehicles Stranded on I-85 North of Charlotte After Jackknifed Semis Trigger Major Winter Traffic Crisis
NORTH CAROLINA — A severe winter traffic emergency unfolded late as more than 100 vehicles became stranded on Interstate 85 north of Charlotte, following multiple jackknifed semi-trucks that blocked lanes and left motorists stuck in rapidly deteriorating conditions.
Officials say temperatures are continuing to drop, worsening already slick road surfaces and making movement nearly impossible for many drivers trapped in the backlog. Emergency response efforts are now escalating as conditions remain hazardous.
Jackknifed Semi-Trucks Bring I-85 to a Standstill
The incident occurred on a stretch of I-85 north of Charlotte, near the Kannapolis area, where several tractor-trailers lost control amid winter weather and jackknifed across the roadway. The crashes triggered a chain reaction, preventing traffic from moving in either direction.
Photos from the scene show long lines of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks immobilized on snow-covered pavement, with emergency lights flashing in the distance as responders attempt to reach stranded motorists.
National Guard Called In as Conditions Worsen
Due to the scale of the incident and the growing number of motorists stuck on the highway, the National Guard has been called in to assist. Authorities have not released details on how long drivers may remain stranded, but officials acknowledge the situation is serious and ongoing.
As temperatures fall, concerns are rising about driver safety, fuel shortages, and exposure to cold, particularly for those who have been stopped for extended periods.
Dropping Temperatures Add to the Danger
Weather conditions remain a major concern, with falling temperatures increasing the risk of ice formation and making recovery efforts more difficult. Even after vehicles are cleared, road conditions may remain unsafe for travel.
Emergency responders are urging drivers to remain in their vehicles unless instructed otherwise and to conserve fuel while waiting for assistance.
What Drivers Should Know
Motorists are being advised to avoid I-85 north of Charlotte entirely until authorities confirm the roadway has been cleared and conditions have improved. Alternate routes may also be impacted as traffic diverts away from the interstate.
This incident highlights the rapidly escalating dangers of winter travel, especially when heavy trucks lose traction on icy roads.
NapervilleLocal.com will continue monitoring this developing situation and provide updates as officials release more information on road conditions, rescue efforts, and expected reopening timelines.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.