13 Alert Traffic: 18-wheeler wreck shuts down all WB lanes of North Loop at McCarty, TranStar shows – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Houston — A dramatic rollover crash involving a heavy truck triggered a full shutdown of westbound lanes on the I-610 North Loop at McCarty Drive Friday morning. Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, where the overturned big rig spilled hazardous materials across the roadway.[1][2] The incident compounded challenges for commuters already navigating slick conditions from overnight rain.
Details Emerge from the Crash Scene
The wreck occurred during the morning rush hour, leaving the massive vehicle flipped on its side and blocking every westbound lane. Houston TranStar cameras captured the chaotic aftermath, confirming the single-vehicle accident involved no other cars at the point of impact.[1] Crews immediately treated the situation as a hazmat event due to the spill, though specifics on the leaked substance remained unclear.
Investigators had not yet determined the cause, but wet roads from recent storms likely played a role. No reports of injuries surfaced in initial accounts, allowing focus to shift toward cleanup and safety measures. The closure extended into eastbound lanes as well, with at least one lane affected by response efforts.
Commuters Face Severe Delays
Traffic ground to a complete halt westbound, forcing drivers to seek detours and adding hours to typical travel times. The North Loop serves as a vital artery for northeast Houston commuters heading toward downtown, amplifying the disruption during peak hours.[1] Eyewitnesses described long backups stretching for miles, with some opting to abandon freeway travel altogether…