Accident on 85 Today RALEIGH/KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — Travelers on Interstate 85 (I‑85) experienced significant travel delays today as emergency crews responded to a series of weather‑related crashes and traffic incidents along one of the Southeast’s busiest interstate corridors.
Traffic authorities report that I‑85 northbound in Kannapolis, North Carolina, was closed for several hours after multiple crashes left more than 100 vehicles stranded on the highway late Saturday and into today. Snowfall and icy conditions contributed to the dangerous road conditions, trapping dozens of passenger cars and over 30 tractor‑trailers between mile markers 60 and 63.
State troopers, the North Carolina National Guard, and emergency management teams worked through the night to clear roadways, assist stranded motorists and reopen travel lanes. Northbound lanes were reported to have reopened late Saturday night, restoring traffic flow after extensive cleanup efforts.
In Spartanburg County, South Carolina, another accident earlier today temporarily closed a separate section of **I‑85 while first responders addressed a wreck on the northbound side near a local exit. The South Carolina Department of Transportation confirmed that lanes have since been reopened as crews completed their work.
Officials are urging motorists to remain cautious as winter weather continues to affect road conditions across the Carolinas. Residual ice patches, ongoing clean‑up operations and heavy travel volumes are expected to cause additional slowdowns throughout the afternoon and evening.
Traffic Impact Details:
- I‑85 Northbound: Major delays and closures in Kannapolis due to more than 100 stranded vehicles following weather‑related crashes.
- Spartanburg County: Temporary lane closures earlier today cleared after emergency response.
- Regional Congestion: Traffic backups reported as transportation departments manage icy stretches and accident sites.
Authorities are reminding drivers to check state traffic advisories and consider alternate routes during hazardous conditions. Further updates are expected as conditions evolve and additional official information becomes available.
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