Westbound Chesapeake Bay Bridge is closed due to a massive vehicle pile-up; injuries have been reported.

The whole westbound span of the Maryland Chesapeake Bay Bridge has been shut down due to a catastrophic multi-vehicle pile-up that occurred this morning at approximately 8 a.m. At least 25 cars collided on the bridge, which is a vital link between the Eastern Shore region and the Baltimore–Washington metropolitan area. Numerous people were injured in the collision.

The big collision has resulted in multiple hospitalisations, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), which confirmed the occurrence. Due to its current closure, the dual-span bridge across the Chesapeake Bay is generating significant delays in Kent Island and Annapolis. It is expected that the shutdown would last for a considerable amount of time.

Fox 5 reported that the dangerous conditions were exacerbated by heavy fog, which made rescue efforts more difficult and forced authorities to close the bridge. The aftermath was shown on aerial film, which showed automobiles, SUVs, pick-up trucks, and tractor-trailers scattered across the bridge. Notably, a vehicle was observed being pinned against a rail by a truck towing a liquid tank trailer.

The MDTA has released photos showing the gridlock along the bridge and the emergency vehicles attending to the tumultuous scene. The exact number and extent of injuries sustained are yet unknown, as is the reason for the first incident. If the thick fog contributed to the event, it is being looked into by the authorities.

Drivers are strongly advised to postpone any plans to cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge as a precaution. On the eastbound span, traffic is alternating between eastbound and westbound, according to Fox 5. Owing to the fog’s reduced visibility, officials have made it illegal to drive both ways across the bridge.

Drivers are asked to stay on US 50 on both sides of the bridge to help with emergency response activities and to keep local roads open for residents and first responders. Updates will be given as additional information becomes available, since the crisis is still ongoing.