Accident Bellingham: A major traffic disruption unfolded Friday afternoon after an incident forced the closure of northbound lanes on Interstate 5 in Bellingham near E. Sunset Drive.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, the closure was reported around 1:40 p.m. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene as authorities shut down northbound traffic to ensure public safety and allow crews to manage the situation.
Officials have not yet released specific details regarding the nature of the incident. WSDOT only confirmed that an “incident” occurred, prompting the immediate closure of the highway. Images shared by the agency showed multiple first responders and emergency vehicles gathered at the scene while traffic backed up along the interstate.
TRAFFIC ALERT – BELLINGHAM: ALL NB LANES OF I5 CLOSED at Sunset Drive due to heavy police presence. Drivers are being detoured at Sunset Drive. The back up extends to Old Fairhaven Pkwy. SB I5 is backed up to Meridian Street.
Motorists traveling northbound are currently being diverted off the freeway at the E. Sunset Drive exit. Drivers in the area are being urged to expect significant delays and consider alternate travel routes until the roadway can safely reopen.
At this time, transportation officials have not provided an estimated timeframe for reopening the affected lanes. Traffic congestion continues to build as commuters and travelers navigate detours around the closure.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation while emergency crews work at the scene. Additional updates are expected as more information becomes available regarding the cause of the incident and the status of the interstate reopening.
Drivers are advised to use caution, remain patient, and follow instructions from law enforcement and traffic control personnel in the area.