August 16, 2026, per El Paso Times Report, a semitrailer crash during a Sunday evening rainstorm brought Interstate 10 to a standstill near the Spaghetti Bowl in Central El Paso, forcing the closure of all westbound lanes and two eastbound lanes while traffic backed up nearly to Airway Boulevard. The incident unfolded at the same time flash flooding was shutting down westbound Montana Avenue in far East El Paso.
What Happened on I-10
The semitrailer crash took place on the evening of Sunday, August 16, on westbound Interstate 10 near the Spaghetti Bowl, the busy interchange where I-10 meets U.S. 54 in Central El Paso. The crash forced TxDOT to close all westbound lanes and the left two eastbound lanes.
Traffic maps at approximately 8:30 p.m. showed gridlock extending eastward on I-10 for miles, nearly reaching Airway Boulevard. Motorists were urged to exit the freeway and use alternate surface streets while crews worked to clear the wreckage.
Flooding Hits Montana Avenue the Same Night
The truck crash was not the only hazard El Paso drivers faced that evening. Heavy rainfall in far East El Paso triggered flash flooding that shut down the westbound lanes of Montana Avenue near Tierra Este Road and Justice Road.
The closure was especially disruptive because Montana Avenue in that stretch is already under active construction, further limiting access. The road had closed the night before, on Saturday, August 15, for the same reason. TxDOT urged all drivers to turn around at standing water and avoid flooded roadways entirely.
No Injury Details Released Yet
As of the latest reports, no information regarding injuries from the I-10 semitrailer crash has been publicly confirmed. The cause of the crash and any potential liability are still under review. TxDOT continues to monitor road and weather conditions across El Paso as additional rainfall is possible in the coming days.
When a semi-truck causes a crash on a busy El Paso highway, the consequences can be severe. If you or a family member has been hurt in a collision involving a commercial truck, a semi-truck accident lawyer in El Paso is ready to step in, investigate, and fight for every dollar of compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not to be used as medical or legal advice and is not intended for solicitation purposes. Any images used in connection with this article are not from the actual accident scene. If you were injured in a truck accident, seek medical attention immediately and consult with a qualified truck accident attorney regarding your legal rights.