Strong winds topple 9 semis on I-10 in La Paz County

Published: Friday, July 28, 2023 - 4:15pm

Strong winds in La Paz County knocked over several semitrucks and blew some off the I-10 roadway on Thursday. The Arizona Department of Transportation reported closures between Tonopah and Quartzsite, which lasted into Friday morning.

The Department of Public Safety said the violent gusts swept nine commercial vehicles off the roadway. Three blew over on the eastbound side of the interstate, with the other six on the westbound side.

“There were a total of two serious injuries, three minor injuries and one non-injury. The two serious injuries were transported from the scene. They are non-life threatening injuries from what I gather," said Bart Graves, an Arizona Department of Pubic Safety spokesperson.

Heavy duty tow trucks were needed to help clear the toppled vehicles from the area. Graves said strong winds can be especially dangerous for tractor-trailers.

Environment Transportation