An overturned crane on Interstate 5 in San Clemente is causing a major traffic backup that’s spilling into San Diego County.
CalTrans says at about 3 p.m., the driver of a crane transport lost control, hitting the highway divider and bridge deck and rolling the rig on its side.
No one was injured, but the sprawling equipment blocked all northbound lanes near Avenida Pico.
Within a few hours, one lane was opened, but the process to get through remained slow.
"Everybody is like nervous and stressed," said Elda Aguila, who sat in traffic for at least four hours. "We are all like that in this part where everybody has to go to one lane, they don't let you go."
The incident has congested the freeway as far south as Basilone Road in San Diego County, officials said.
Significant delays are expected, and transportation officials expect the freeway to be blocked 8 to 10 hours. Drivers are being encouraged to take alternative routes.
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By midnight, CalTrans hopes to have at least a couple lanes open, if not the whole interstate, as long as they can find the right truck to carry the crane.
A spokesperson says it should not affect the morning commute.
This story will be updated as more information comes available. Check back for updates.
