Vehicle Accident Causes Power Outage and Road Closure on I-85 in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE — Early Saturday morning, a vehicle struck power lines near I-85, resulting in the lines falling over the interstate and forcing the closure of the road in both directions. The incident occurred just before 8 a.m. near North Graham Street. The highway was reopened to traffic shortly before 10 a.m.
To navigate around the closed section of I-85, drivers are advised to refer to Channel 9’s traffic map for alternate routes. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has provided detours for affected motorists. Southbound travelers must take Exit 48 (I-485 Outer), continue on I-485 to Exit 23 (I-77 South), and then proceed on I-77 South to reaccess I-85. Northbound travelers, on the other hand, should take Exit 38 (I-77 North), continue on I-77 North to Exit 149 (I-485 Inner), and then continue on I-485 to reaccess I-85.
Apart from the traffic disruptions, the incident has left more than 800 customers in north Charlotte without power, according to the Duke Energy Power Outage Map. Duke Energy maintenance crews were promptly dispatched to the scene. Channel 9’s photographer stationed at the overpass on North Graham Street witnessed Duke Energy personnel working to fix the damaged power lines around 8:30 a.m.
Duke Energy estimates that power will be fully restored by 11:30 a.m., providing relief to the affected customers.
This is a developing story, and the latest updates can be found on wsoctv.com.
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