Mudslide Covers, Closes I-80 Near Truckee

TRUCKEE, Calif. -- The California Department of Transportation has closed Interstate 80, five miles east of Truckee, due to a major mudslide covering both directions of the interstate, according to a Caltrans news release.

The slide occurred at approximately 3 a.m. At the time of the slide, approximately six big rigs were caught in the slide, as well as four pieces of Caltrans equipment and four employees. All big rig drivers and Caltrans personnel were rescued, and there have been no reports of injuries, according to the release.

The slide occurred at Iceland Grade from the westbound side of the interstate, taking out between 300 and 400 feet of center median barrier, covering both the eastbound and westbound lanes, the release said.

All eastbound traffic is being held in Truckee and westbound traffic is being held at the Nevada/California Stateline. Preliminary estimates for reopening the freeway is approximately 48 hours," according to the news release.

Emergency repairs are expected to start as soon as the slide stabilizes, which should happen once the rain lets up, according to the release.

Caltrans is urging motorists to use caution when driving in the Sierra during the holiday weekend and to be alert for changing conditions.