Lake Charles, Louisiana - Lake Charles police reported a major traffic disruption Thursday evening after a crash on Interstate 10 westbound near Lakeshore Drive and the Calcasieu River Bridge brought traffic to a standstill.
Update: This crash has been cleared from the roadway.
According to authorities, the incident happened at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, on I-10 westbound in the area of the Calcasieu River bridge and Lakeshore Drive. Police said all westbound lanes are currently blocked and are asking drivers to avoid the area for about three hours, if possible.
The closure affects I-10 westbound near the Calcasieu River bridge, a heavily traveled corridor for both local commuters and through traffic. With all lanes shut down, significant delays are likely in and around Lake Charles, especially during the evening rush period.
At the time this was published, traffic on I-10 Eastbound near the Calcasieu River Bridge was also heavily congested.
No additional details about the number of vehicles involved, possible injuries, or the cause of the crash were immediately available. Police did not provide an exact time for when the interstate is expected to fully reopen, but they are advising drivers to seek alternate routes while crews respond to the scene and work to clear the roadway.
Drivers heading west through Lake Charles are urged to use caution.