SUNNYSIDE, Wash. – UPDATE March 12
According to WSDOT’s Travel Center Map, I-82 is reopened in both directions.
UPDATE 4:36 p.m.
The crash on I-82 caused a power outage for over 1,700 residents in Sunnyside, according to Pacific Power spokesperson Simon Gutierrez.
Crews are currently repairing debris, replacing a pole and getting the lines back onto the pole.
Restoration is estimated to finish at 6:15 p.m., however could take longer, according to Gutierrez.
UPDATE 3:47 p.m.
According to WSP Trooper Chris Thorson on social media, no one was injured in the crash and only one car was involved.
Telephone and fiber optic cables landed on the highway as a result of the crash, according to Thorson.
UPDATE 3:29 p.m.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Chris Thorson says a truck reportedly drove into a power pole heading westbound, which knocked over power lines and closed the road in both directions.
Thorson says the crash happened at 2:42 p.m. Pacific Power was contacted ten minutes later.
The cause is currently unknown. Thorson says WSP will investigate once traffic is moving again.
Estimated reopening of the road is unknown.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, I-82 is closed in both directions in Sunnyside due to downed power lines.
WSDOT says the closure is at milepost 68. Eastbound traffic is being sent to exit 67 and westbound traffic is being sent to exit 69.
This is a developing story, which means information could change. We are working to report timely and accurate information as we get it.
