Multiple early morning crashes on highway in Columbia delay drivers, causes injuries
Multiple collisions were reported in Richland County early on a rainy Monday morning, causing injuries and delays for drivers.
In a two-hour span, there were four crashes within four miles of each other on a stretch of Interstate 26 that runs through Columbia.
Westbound lanes on I-26 were closed following collisions at the 97 mile marker, the 101 mile marker and two wrecks near the 99 mile marker, according to the South Carolina Department of Transportation.
Injuries were reported in both of the crashes near the 99 mile marker, which occurred at about 4:30 and 6:30 a.m., respectively, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. The other wrecks occurred within minutes following the crashes near the 99 mile marker, according to DPS.
Information on the number of people hurt and the amount of vehicles involved the four collisions was not available.
There was no word on what caused each of the collisions.
SCDOT said the crashes were cleared from I-26, but traffic cameras show vehicles dealing with wet conditions.
It was raining overnight, and the precipitation continued during the Monday morning commute. The forecast shows there is a 90% chance of rain throughout the morning in Columbia, and thunderstorms are possible.
Because of all the heavy rain, a hazardous weather outlook was issued for the Midlands. Flooding is possible, especially in urban areas and in flood-prone, low-lying locations, the National Weather Service said.
Officials have not said the weather was the cause in any of the collisions.
In similar situations in the past, South Carolina Highway Patrol has warned drivers to slow down and limit distractions, and to never drive through any flooded roads.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published April 18, 2022 at 7:29 AM.
