A major tractor-trailer crash has shut down I-85 North near Lowell, creating massive backups across Gaston County during Monday morning rush hour.
As of 8:15 am, northbound lanes remained closed near Exit 23. Traffic was backed up into Gastonia, with congestion also spreading onto U.S. 74 and surrounding secondary roads.
The crash happened near the Lowell exit and involves a tractor-trailer. Drivers heading north are being forced off I-85 around Exit 22.
Southbound traffic is also moving extremely slowly. Backups stretch toward the Catawba River bridge, with heavy traffic reported on I-85 South and U.S. 74.
Drivers should avoid Gaston County if possible and expect significant delays throughout the morning commute on I-85.
