WASHINGTON COUNTY, Md. (WDCW) – A windmill turbine blade became loose Monday morning, crossing the median on Interstate 70 in Maryland and causing traffic to be backed up for several miles.
According to Maryland State Police (MSP), troopers responded to I-70 West, near Interstate 81, just after 5 a.m. There, they learned that a tractor-trailer had been hauling a windmill blade west on I-70 when the blade became loose.
The blade then ended up across the center median, blocking the eastbound lanes, according to state police.
Officials initially said no one was hurt. But in an update around 8:50 a.m., state police confirmed with NewsNation affiliate WDCW that one person was taken to the hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
At least three lanes were blocked off on I-70 east and four lanes were also closed on I-70 west after the incident.
Traffic cameras captured the bizarre scene as authorities directed traffic in both directions.
Drivers traveling in the area could expect heavy delays as crews worked to remove the turbine from the highway.