Charleston area bridges shut down after collisions as multiple agencies warn of ice threat
NORTH CHARLESTON — Collisions on the Don Holt and Cosgrove Avenue bridges have caused traffic snarls the frost-covered morning of Dec. 10 due to ice on the roadways, multiple agencies report.
As of 7:30 a.m., all lanes of Interstate 526 past exit 23 for Clements Ferry Road in both travel directions were closed to traffic due to collisions and icy conditions, according to live updated traffic maps from the S.C. Department of Transportation.
The roadway, connecting Daniel Island to North Charleston, was devoid of vehicular traffic shortly before 8 a.m. as police agencies completely shut down the span, DOT traffic cameras showed.
Officials diverted traffic from I-526 eastbound lanes down exit 20 for Virginia Avenue while traffic remained at a standstill on the Daniel Island westbound portion near Clements Ferry Road.
Traffic was faring no better on Cosgrove Avenue shortly after 7:30 a.m., with multiple collisions completely closing down both travel directions of the roadway at the onset of the bridge connecting North Charleston to West Ashley.
Officials attribute the increased likelihood of traffic incidents to an accumulation of ice that settled overnight and into the morning.
The Charleston Police Department urges drivers to take extra precaution out on the roads, especially bridges. The agency has multiple officers stationed near the Don Holt and Cosgrove bridges to assist in providing aid in collisions, according to a post on CPD’s X page.
CPD officers advise that motorists slow down and increase following distances, leaving ample space between vehicles.
Similarly, the North Charleston Police Department urged caution through the agency’s CrimeWatch platform. The agency noted that dense fog across roadways has increased the danger.
The National Weather Service issued a freezing fog advisory early Dec. 10. The notification warns of low visibility and hazardous driving conditions that are expected to persist until around 9 a.m.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
