Inferno on I-80: Semi-Truck Engulfed in Flames Halts Westbound Traffic

A harrowing scene unfolded on I-80 Westbound this morning as a semi-truck became fully engulfed in flames, triggering a major emergency response and bringing traffic to a grinding halt. The dramatic incident, reported just before 9:30 AM MDT, occurred at milepost 141, right before the mouth of Parleys Canyon, creating an alarming spectacle for commuters.

Witnesses described thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky as the large commercial vehicle was consumed by the blaze.

Emergency crews, including firefighters and Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) officers, swiftly arrived on the scene to battle the intense fire and manage the unfolding chaos. Their immediate priority was to contain the inferno and ensure the safety of other motorists.

The severity of the fire necessitated the closure of multiple right lanes on I-80 Westbound, leading to extensive traffic backups.

Commuters reported miles of stalled vehicles, with journey times significantly impacted. Authorities urged drivers to exercise extreme caution, anticipate prolonged delays, and, if possible, seek alternate routes to avoid the bottleneck entirely.

While the cause of the fire is currently under investigation, the incident served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of highway travel.

First responders worked diligently to extinguish the flames and clear the wreckage, but the process was expected to take several hours, prolonging the disruption for westbound travelers.

Drivers planning to use I-80 Westbound through Parleys Canyon are advised to remain alert for ongoing traffic impacts and consider checking real-time traffic updates before departing.

Safety remains paramount as crews continue their efforts to fully clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow.