STAUNTON, Va. – UPDATE - 1 p.m.
Northbound and southbound lanes on I-81 have fully reopened, according to VDOT.
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Authorities say the ramp from I-81 south to I-64 east at exit 221 is expected to reopen shortly.
UPDATE - 11:30 a.m.
Both southbound lanes of I-81 have reopened, according to VDOT.
Authorities say drivers heading north on I-81 are detoured at exit 220 to follow Route 262 (Woodrow Wilson Parkway) north to get back on I-81 at exit 225.
The ramp from I-64 west to I-81 South has partly reopened, and drivers can use the left lane of the ramp but the right lane will remain closed, VDOT says.
ORIGINAL STORY
An overturned tractor-trailer is blocking all northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 81 at mile marker 221 near Staunton. The location is at the overpass bridge for exit 221, the junction of I-81 and I-64. The ramp from westbound I-64 to southbound I-81 is also closed. There is no estimate on reopening lanes. Avoid the area.
Route 262 (Woodrow Wilson Parkway) is a bypass around Staunton, and is serving as a detour route.
· Northbound I-81 traffic is detoured at exit 220 and follows Route 262 north to rejoin the interstate at exit 225.
· Southbound I-81 traffic is detoured at exit 225 and follows Route 262 south to rejoin the interstate at exit 220.
The overturned tractor-trailer was reported to the Virginia Department of Transportation shortly before 6:30 a.m. Saturday (November 19). The truck was hauling a liquid cargo that will need to be cleaned up before all lanes can reopen. Freezing temperatures may also require I-81 lanes to be salted before opening to traffic. VDOT is investigating damage to the I-64/I-81 overpass bridge, and repairs may be necessary before it reopens.
For updated traffic alerts and travel information, dial 511 or go to http://www.511Virginia.org.