LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. – Interstate 81 southbound has reopened after a crash forced the highway to shut down for several hours Saturday evening, according to traffic officials. The closure caused significant delays for drivers traveling through Lebanon and Schuylkill counties before the roadway was fully cleared late at night.
Crash Reported Near Swatara Township
The crash occurred near the 93 milepost in Swatara Township, Lebanon County, as confirmed by 511PA. Authorities said Interstate 81 southbound was initially closed around 4 p.m. as emergency crews responded to the scene and worked to manage traffic conditions.
Details surrounding the crash remain limited, and officials have not released information about how the incident occurred.
Southbound Lanes Closed at Schuylkill County Exit
Due to the crash, traffic was stopped southbound at Exit 100, also known as the Pine Grove exit, located in Schuylkill County. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes as congestion built up throughout the evening hours.
As of 11 p.m., the southbound lanes of Interstate 81 were still closed while crews continued clearing the scene.
Interstate 81 Reopens Late Saturday Night
Traffic officials reported that the highway reopened around 11:30 p.m., allowing southbound traffic to resume after more than seven hours of closure. Normal traffic flow gradually returned following the reopening.
The incident was first reported by WHTM, citing traffic data from 511PA.
No Injuries or Cause Confirmed
At this time, authorities have not confirmed whether there were any injuries resulting from the crash. There has also been no official word on the cause of the incident. An investigation may be ongoing, and additional details could be released as they become available.
Drivers are encouraged to remain alert and check real-time traffic updates when traveling through the area.
