The Utah Department of Transportation says that high winds have blown over at least four semi trucks along I-80 this morning.
Wind Gusts Cause Truck Blow Overs And Vehicle Crashes
Wind speeds of more than 70 m.p.h. were recorded in Utah this morning.
Semitrucks tipped over on I-80. Strong winds are causing problems across Utah. We’ll keep providing updates here: https://t.co/R1MiIZkpft pic.twitter.com/oGpctWHVvS
— KSL (@KSLcom) June 12, 2017
The truck blow overs occurred on westbound I-80 at mile markers 82, 79, and 77. On eastbound I-80, one truck blew over at mile marker 72. Several other crashes have been reported in the area in addition to the truck blow overs.
Truck Restrictions In Place On I-80
Utah Highway Patrol officers are not allowing semi trucks on both directions of I-80 between mile markers 82 and 70 because of the dangerous winds.
Update: EB/WB I-80 MP 1-90 @TooeleCity 1 ln open each dir, semis restricted check @waze before trips @UtahTrucking @nevadadot @WYDOT_I80
— UDOT Traffic (@UDOTTRAFFIC) June 12, 2017
The high wind speeds are being blamed on an oncoming cold front that is following a week of near record high temperatures in the area. Temperatures are expected to drop dramatically and snow has already been spotted in the mountainous areas of the state. The wind speeds are expected to stay fairly high throughout the evening.
The gusting wind is also expected to pick up dust and create areas of low visibility throughout the evening.
65 mph wind on I-80 Tooele Utah. Police shutting it down now pic.twitter.com/kybPh0utDU
— George kuersten (@GeorgeKuersten) June 12, 2017