Terre Haute, IN – A major multi-vehicle crash involving over 50 vehicles forced the closure of westbound I-70 just east of Terre Haute, Indiana, amid a severe winter storm, authorities reported Friday. The pileup left several people injured and caused widespread traffic disruptions across the region.
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Weather Conditions in Terre Haute, Indiana
Current conditions: Mostly cloudy, 27°F (-3°C)
Daily Forecast:
- Sunday, November 30: Low 22°F (-5°C), High 30°F (-1°C), Cloudy, windy and cold; 2-4 cm snowfall
- Monday, December 1: Low 22°F (-5°C), High 33°F (0°C), Cloudy and cool
- Tuesday, December 2: Low 17°F (-8°C), High 29°F (-2°C), Very cold with low clouds
The crash occurred during heavy snowfall, icy roads, and sub-freezing temperatures, creating extremely hazardous driving conditions.
What Happened on I-70 Near Terre Haute
According to Indiana State Police, the crash occurred on westbound I-70 east of Terre Haute, where visibility was low and roads were slick with ice and snow. First responders arrived to a chaotic scene involving more than 50 vehicles, including passenger cars, pickup trucks, and commercial vehicles.
The crash completely blocked the westbound lanes, prompting authorities to close the interstate while they attended to victims, assessed injuries, and cleared debris. Several individuals were reported injured, with many transported to nearby hospitals. The exact number of injuries and the full sequence of collisions remain under investigation.
Emergency Response and Road Conditions
The Terre Haute I-70 pileup occurred during a winter system that brought snow, ice, and freezing temperatures to western Indiana. Slippery roads and limited visibility likely contributed to this massive chain-reaction crash.
Emergency crews—including local fire departments, EMS, Indiana State Police, and towing teams—worked under challenging conditions to assist victims and clear the roadway. INDOT crews are salting, sanding, and plowing the interstate and nearby routes, but authorities warn that conditions remain dangerous, and travel should be avoided unless necessary.
Traffic has been diverted to alternative routes, causing significant delays on surrounding roads. Drivers are urged to remain patient and follow directions from emergency personnel.
Impact on Travelers and Safety Concerns
The westbound I-70 closure near Terre Haute has caused long backups and delays for motorists traveling toward Illinois and western Indiana. Officials emphasize the dangers of winter driving, particularly on high-speed highways like I-70, and advise drivers to:
- Reduce speed dramatically in snow and ice
- Increase following distance
- Avoid sudden braking or lane changes
- Delay travel if conditions are dangerous
Motorists already in the area are reminded to obey signs and yield to emergency and INDOT vehicles operating around the crash site.
Community and Public Reactions
News of the Terre Haute I-70 crash spread rapidly on social media, with travelers sharing photos of icy roads and traffic backups. Families expressed concern for loved ones traveling in the area, while local groups used platforms to provide updates on alternate routes, road closures, and weather conditions.
Many residents expressed gratitude for first responders working in freezing conditions to rescue and assist victims. Others highlighted the incident as a reminder to take winter driving warnings seriously and prepare vehicles with emergency supplies like blankets, water, chargers, and first aid kits.
Official Statement and Next Steps
Indiana State Police are leading the investigation into the I-70 pileup. Accident reconstruction teams are examining how the crash began and the contributing factors, including weather, speed, visibility, and driver behavior.
INDOT has not provided a timeline for reopening westbound I-70, noting that clearing over 50 vehicles, including damaged commercial trucks, and inspecting the roadway will take considerable time. Officials are asking witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact Indiana State Police to assist with the investigation.
Travelers planning to drive near Terre Haute or western Indiana are strongly advised to check road and weather updates before departure and consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Conclusion
The massive I-70 pileup near Terre Haute serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of winter driving on high-speed highways. Authorities and first responders continue to work tirelessly under difficult conditions to assist victims and restore safe travel. Residents and travelers are urged to remain cautious, patient, and prepared while the investigation and cleanup continue.
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