Pair of crashes blocking I-5 North near Lakeway Drive; WSP warns of extended closure

What happened?

A semi truck hauling two trailers lost control and jacknifed at about 4:30 a.m. blocking all lanes of Interstate 5 North near Lakeway Drive. The truck caught fire, and the fire spread to one of the trailers. That trailer was hauling hazardous materials, but the Washington State Patrol said the materials did not pose a danger to the public.

A second crash, involving two semitrucks, happened about 40 minutes later in the same area.

What is the latest?

As of 8:45 a.m., the northbound lanes of I-5 remained closed. The Washington State Department of Transportation said the freeway is expected to be closed for "an extended period of time." Traffic is being detoured onto Highway 99.

What should you do?

If you are traveling in the area, allow extra time for your commute or find an alternate route.