Attention all drivers! If you’re planning on heading south on I-65 near Lowell, we’ve got some important news for you. A milk truck flipped over earlier this morning, spilling its entire load across the highway, and now I-65 South is completely shut down. This is causing a huge traffic mess in the area, and it’s going to be a while before things are cleared up. Here’s everything you need to know so you can avoid getting stuck.
What Happened?
Early this morning, a milk delivery truck lost control and overturned on I-65 South, spilling milk and debris all over the road. Cleanup crews are already on-site, but with dairy products and wreckage scattered across the highway, it’s going to take some time to get everything cleaned up. To keep things safe, authorities have closed down I-65 South near Lowell completely, and traffic is being rerouted around the scene. But let’s be honest, getting around this mess isn’t going to be easy.
What Does This Mean for You?
-
I-65 South is Closed: If you’re planning to head south on I-65 near Lowell, you’re out of luck. The southbound lanes are completely blocked and there’s no set time yet for when they’ll be cleared. The road is going to stay closed for several hours, so it’s better to find an alternate route if you can.
-
Detours Are Slowing Things Down: Traffic is being redirected onto local roads, and even though detours are in place, they’re getting crowded fast. Expect delays as everyone is being funneled through smaller streets. If you can, try to avoid this area completely, but if you absolutely have to go through, be ready for long wait times and slow-moving traffic.
-
Even Northbound Traffic is Affected: While the overturned truck is blocking the southbound lanes, there’s also some slower-moving traffic in the northbound lanes. Drivers are slowing down to take a look at the scene or to avoid the area, so expect some minor delays there too.
How to Deal With This Situation:
-
Avoid I-65 South If Possible: The most straightforward advice is to stay off I-65 South if you can. If you’re traveling anywhere near Lowell, try to find an alternative route around the area. Google Maps or Waze are your best friends right now to find quicker detours.
-
Follow Detour Signs: If you absolutely must go through, make sure to follow the detour signs carefully. Local roads are being used as alternate routes, but they’re going to be packed with other drivers. Make sure you’re patient, and take your time.
-
Stay Updated: Things are still developing, and conditions are changing quickly. Keep an eye on your traffic apps like Waze or Google Maps to get live updates, and listen to local news stations for any new road closures or updates.
-
Be Ready for Delays: The reality is, this situation is going to cause major delays. If you’re planning on heading through the area, make sure you’re prepared for a longer journey. Pack snacks, have some water, and make sure your phone is charged in case you need to make any calls or check updates while stuck in traffic.
-
Don’t Take Risks: If you come across flooded or blocked areas on your detour route, don’t try to drive through. It may look tempting, but just a few inches of water can turn a situation dangerous. Always choose safety over speed.
What’s Going to Happen Next?
As it stands, I-65 South will be closed for several more hours while cleanup efforts continue. The mess left behind by the overturned milk truck isn’t something that can be cleared up quickly, so be prepared for a longer closure. Detours will remain in place, and it’s likely the area will continue to be congested for the rest of the day.
If you can avoid this area completely, that’s your best bet. But if not, plan for a delayed trip and make sure you’re staying on top of any new updates as they come in.
