ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Chaos is unfolding across many major roadways in western North Carolina tonight as winter weather pounds the mountains.
Multiple spots, including from Buncombe County to Haywood County, especially Interstate 40, are experiencing heavy traffic as roadways are becoming more hazardous as the night goes on, according to News 13’s traffic map.
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North Carolina Department of Transportation communications officer, David Uchiyama, said all the backup is due to icy conditions that started around sunset.
“NCDOT crews have been working on the road, specifically the interstates, since late last night all across western North Carolina. Each county and each road system has had its own set of treatments leading up to this winter storm and during the winter storm,” Uchiyama said.
Incident Management Assistance Patrol crews have been working to help first responders get through, Uchiyama said. They’ve also been helping drivers by pushing vehicles across bridges, towing bigger vehicles and assisting NCDOT maintenance crews with anti-icing.
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Uchiyama said NCDOT crews are working around the clock until all the roads are clear.
Around 10:44 p.m., News 13’s Rian Stockett reported from NCDOT that one lane on I-40 West is closed at Smokey Park Highway, and it should open around 11 p.m.
He also reminds people to stay off the roads unless it’s absolutely necessary.
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This is a developing story and News 13 will provide updates as more is available.
