Vigo County, Indiana, November 30, 2025
A significant winter storm caused a 45-vehicle pileup on westbound I-70 near Terre Haute, resulting in lane closures for hours. While several minor injuries were reported, no major injuries occurred. The incident highlights the impacts of hazardous winter weather on road safety.
Vigo County, Indiana
Massive 45-Vehicle Pileup Closes Westbound I-70 in Vigo County
Vigo County, Indiana – A significant winter storm led to a massive pileup involving approximately 45 vehicles on westbound Interstate 70 near Terre Haute on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The incident resulted in the closure of all westbound lanes for several hours, with authorities estimating a six-hour cleanup period. Despite the scale of the accident, no major injuries were reported.
Details of the Incident
The pileup occurred around 11:30 a.m. near mile marker 15 on westbound I-70. Initial reports indicated that 20 to 30 vehicles were involved, but this number was later revised to approximately 45 as the situation was assessed. The collision was attributed to hazardous road conditions caused by snow and ice, leading to multiple vehicles sliding off the road and into each other. Emergency response teams, including the Indiana State Police, Vigo County Sheriff’s Department, and multiple fire departments, worked collaboratively to clear the wreckage and reopen the highway.
Impact and Response
All westbound lanes of I-70 were closed following the accident, causing significant traffic disruptions. Authorities advised drivers to avoid the area and utilize recommended exits. The cleanup operation was expected to take at least six hours, with the westbound lanes reopening around 7:00 p.m. local time. Despite the extensive damage and the number of vehicles involved, no major injuries were reported. Approximately a dozen individuals sustained minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment.
Weather Conditions and Advisory
At the time of the accident, Vigo County was under a winter weather advisory until 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, with snowfall expected to be between one and four inches and wind gusts projected at up to 35 miles per hour. These conditions contributed to the hazardous driving environment, leading to the pileup. Authorities have renewed calls for increased caution and preparedness on roads, aiming to prevent similar occurrences as snow and ice conditions recur throughout the season.
Background Context
Interstate 70 is a major east-west highway that traverses several states, including Indiana. The stretch through Vigo County is known for its heavy traffic, especially during winter months when snow and ice can create treacherous driving conditions. Previous incidents in the area have highlighted the importance of timely road maintenance and effective emergency response to ensure public safety during adverse weather events.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Westbound I-70 near mile marker 15, Vigo County, Indiana |
| Number of Vehicles Involved | Approximately 45 |
| Time of Incident | Reported around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025 |
| Closure Duration | At least six hours; reopened around 7:00 p.m. local time |
| Injuries | No major injuries; approximately a dozen individuals with minor injuries |
| Weather Conditions | Winter weather advisory; snowfall between one and four inches; wind gusts up to 35 mph |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the massive pileup on I-70 in Vigo County?
The pileup was caused by hazardous road conditions due to snow and ice, leading to multiple vehicles sliding off the road and into each other.
How many vehicles were involved in the accident?
Approximately 45 vehicles were involved in the pileup on westbound I-70 near Terre Haute.
Were there any major injuries reported?
No major injuries were reported. Approximately a dozen individuals sustained minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment.
How long were the westbound lanes of I-70 closed?
The westbound lanes were closed for at least six hours, reopening around 7:00 p.m. local time on Saturday.
What weather conditions contributed to the accident?
Vigo County was under a winter weather advisory with snowfall expected to be between one and four inches and wind gusts up to 35 miles per hour, creating hazardous driving conditions.
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