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At least six people were killed in a sprawling car crash on I-55 outside Springfield, Illinois, according to Illinois police.
The massive crash, involving about 80 cars, occurred during a dust storm with poor visibility.
More than 30 people were taken to nearby hospitals. Injuries range from minor to life-threatening, with those injured ranging in age from two to 80, WLS reported.
At the time, winds were blowing between 35 and 45 mph, according to The Weather Channel.
I-55 remains close in both directions near Sangamon and Montgomery counties, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.
The Auburn Travel Center in Divernon is being used as a reunification location for travelers and families of those involved in the crash, according to state police.
Dust storm accident scenes on I-55
(AP)
(AP)
(AP)
Graeme MassieMay 2, 2023 00:29
Illinois governor monitors ‘horrible situation’
“My team is in constant communication with the Illinois State Police, the Department of Transportation and the Emergency Management Agency to ensure the safety of motorists as they navigate dangerous conditions,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.
“On the ground, our first aid and emergency management teams are working diligently to clear the way, provide medical care to those in need, and partner with local officials to provide support to all affected by this tragic accident.”
Graeme MassieMay 1, 2023 23:49
Officials say at least six dead in dust storm accident
According to authorities, at least six people were killed in a mass crash on I-55 caused by a dust storm in Illinois.
Injuries range from minor to life-threatening, and those injured range in age from 2 to 80 years old, WLS reported.
Graeme MassieMay 1, 2023 23:07
I-55 will remain closed through Tuesday
Illinois State Police officers say I-55 will be closed until late morning or late Tuesday afternoon.
“Interstate 55 in southern Sangamon and northern Montgomery counties remains closed in both directions due to numerous accidents caused by a dust storm, which has greatly reduced visibility. I-55 traffic is being diverted via Illinois 104 and Illinois 48 through Taylorville,” the Illinois Department of Transportation said on Twitter.
(WICS TV)
Graeme MassieMay 1, 2023 22:46
What is to blame for the crash conditions?
“Be careful driving on I-55 in northern Montgomery County, IL. The combination of freshly plowed fields and gusty northwesterly winds is creating a dust storm in this area,” the St. Louis National Weather Service tweeted.
Be careful driving on I-55 in northern Montgomery County, IL. The combination of freshly plowed fields and gusty northwesterly winds is creating a dust storm in this area. Additionally, there have been reports of several accidents in the area due to reduced visibility. #ilwx https://t.co/lWj1Gfcbya
— NWS St. Louis (@NWSStLouis) May 1, 2023
Graeme MassieMay 1, 2023 22:23
Authorities establish place of reunification
The Auburn Travel Center in Divernon is being used as a reunification location for travelers and families of those involved in the crash, according to state police.
“To keep travelers coming from the North Side to meet their loved ones safe, the Auburn Travel Center has been established as a reunification point. Located at 329 IL Route 104, Diverton, IL, this is for reunification only,” the Illinois State Police said.
Graeme MassieMay 1, 2023 22:14
More than 30 taken to hospital, police say
jose marcusMay 1, 2023 21:44
