Urgent: Crews Battle Brush Fires on I-540, Traffic Grounded

UPDATE: Brush fires are raging along Interstate 540 near Leesville Road, causing significant traffic disruptions in Raleigh, N.C. Officials confirmed that emergency crews were deployed to combat the flames and smoke that erupted around 2:50 p.m. today.

Multiple fire engines are currently on the scene, with smoke visible along I-540, particularly near mile marker 5, according to traffic cameras from the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The Raleigh Fire Department is leading the firefighting efforts, supported by the Durham Highway Fire Department.

As a result of the fires, one lane of I-540 has been closed near Leesville Road, and traffic is completely halted near the Capital Boulevard/U.S. 1 interchange. Commuters are urged to avoid this area and seek alternate routes.

The situation is rapidly developing, and officials stress the importance of heeding road signs and updates. Motorists should remain vigilant, as conditions can change quickly.

Authorities are working diligently to extinguish the fires and restore normal traffic flow. Keep an eye on local news sources for real-time updates and safety instructions.

Stay tuned for more urgent developments as this story unfolds.