Mesa County, CO – A major stretch of Interstate 70 in western Colorado is today after a semi-truck fire forced officials to shut down eastbound lanes near Loma, causing significant traffic disruptions for drivers in the area.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the closure is impacting eastbound I-70 at milepost 9, just west of Loma, after a semi caught fire earlier today. Authorities said crews remain on scene working to cool hot spots left behind by the blaze, which has prevented the immediate reopening of the highway.
Officials indicated that while the fire has been contained, lingering heat and roadway concerns have made it unsafe to allow traffic through the area. Emergency responders and transportation crews are continuing cleanup and safety assessments as of this afternoon.
Drivers traveling through Mesa County are being urged to seek alternate routes and expect delays. The Colorado Department of Transportation is also monitoring conditions and providing updates through its traffic platforms.
Authorities said there is an expectation that at least one lane could reopen within the next one to two hours, depending on how quickly crews can safely clear the scene and address any roadway damage caused by the fire.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident as of now. The cause of the semi fire has not yet been disclosed, and officials have not said whether additional closures could occur.
Motorists are encouraged to check real-time updates before traveling through the area and to use caution near emergency crews working along the interstate.
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