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Interstate 40 Closed Again in Western North Carolina

Interstate 40 closed due to a landslide in Western North Carolina

News Summary

Interstate 40 has been closed in Western North Carolina due to a landslide, causing significant traffic delays and inconvenience for travelers. This marks the second closure within a year, following a prior issue related to Hurricane Helene. The North Carolina Department of Transportation is working on repairs, which will take considerable time due to the extent of the damage. The situation is expected to worsen as vacation season approaches, with locals seeking alternative routes to avoid traffic jams.

Asheville, North Carolina – Interstate 40 has been closed again in Western North Carolina due to a landslide, impacting both east and westbound traffic. The shutdown comes as a significant inconvenience for travelers and residents alike, marking the second closure of the interstate in less than a year, with a previous closure from September 2024 to March 2025 caused by Hurricane Helene.

The current traffic disruption, occurring on a Wednesday, has resulted in severe delays and hours-long traffic jams, described as a “nightmare” by traffic management officials. Significant backups have been reported, extending up to Exit 21. The situation is likely to worsen as the upcoming vacation season approaches, raising concerns among local residents and commuters about even heavier congestion.

Local roadways, particularly I-26, have begun to experience slow traffic as a direct consequence of the I-40 closure. There have been discussions in the community about avoiding I-26 completely and instead taking alternative routes, such as Merrimon Avenue, to bypass the traffic issues. Some travelers are already reporting considerable delays; for example, a Weaverville resident noted that his commute to Franklin, Tennessee, has increased by an additional 30 minutes due to bumper-to-bumper conditions.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is prioritizing repairs for I-40 after the landslide, but officials have indicated that this will take time due to the extent of the damage. The impact of this closure extends beyond North Carolina, affecting travel routes into eastern Tennessee as well. Numerous roads across the state have also been impacted, with over 450 reported closures resulting from recent weather events.

In Tennessee, the Department of Transportation reported significant destruction from Hurricane Helene, including the loss of several bridges on I-26 that serve as crucial connections between the two states. This compounded damage is further limiting options for drivers traveling across state lines.

Repair plans are already underway with a focus on I-40’s bridges over Hominy Creek and the French Broad River. The rehabilitation project has a budget of $27.9 million, and the completion is anticipated by spring 2026. Emergency alerts have been issued to keep drivers informed about current road conditions and recommended detours.

As the I-40 closure continues, local officials and residents are bracing for additional complications. The combined closure and ongoing road repairs present a logistical challenge for all who rely on this vital route for daily commutes and long-distance travel. Authorities are encouraging drivers to remain aware of traffic updates and to consider alternative routes when planning their journeys.