The Washington State Department of Transportation said northbound Interstate 5, just north of Iowa Street in Bellingham, is closed Sunday morning due to a massive landslide. No injuries have been reported.
According to a Facebook post from WSDOT, the landslide happened just before 6 a.m. Sunday morning on I-5 north of Iowa Street at milepost 254 in Bellingham. As a result of the incident, a semi ended up in the mud.
Crews are on scene clearing debris and repairing damage to barriers and walls, a WSDOT spokesperson said. In addition to clearing debris, the jersey barrier was pushed into the southbound lanes and required realignment. In addition, geotechnical experts will evaluate the slope stability at this location.
According to WSDOT, crews are clearing an estimated 2,000 cubic yards of debris. A tow truck was called in from 10:15 am on Sunday morning to remove the truck. The southbound left lane of I-5 is also blocked at this time.
There is no estimated time when the northbound lanes will reopen. WSDOT expected a 3-mile backup due to the incident.
WSP diverted traffic off I-5 at Lakeway and back at sunset. Travelers should continue to use alternate routes, WSDOT said.
This area has recorded significant rainfall, so flooding can be expected on many local roads nearby, WSDOT said.
“A reminder to drivers: we have standing water on several roads around Whatcom County due to heavy rain. Do not drive through standing water and if you see a ‘Road Closed’ sign, pay attention to it. It is there for your safety and the safety of crews who may be working on the other side. We will reopen the roads as quickly and safely as possible,” WSDOT said.
A WSDOT spokesperson said the area is not the same as a 2021 landslide, which occurred on Nulle Road.
There is no further information regarding this incident at this time.
