Authorities reopened Interstate 85 north of Charlotte late Saturday after a major snowstorm caused widespread traffic disruptions. Over 100 vehicles were stranded in Cabarrus County due to multiple collisions and icy conditions. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol and the National Guard worked to clear the roadway, which was closed for several hours near Dale Earnhardt Boulevard.

The initial backup stemmed from a minor accident exacerbated by the winter weather. A number of tractor-trailers lost momentum and jackknifed, further complicating the situation. The closure, impacting Exit 60 to Exit 63, prompted officials to advise drivers to avoid the area. The incident underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to extreme weather events.

From midnight to noon, Medic responded to 33 wrecks, including a collision at Arrowood Road that hospitalized two people with life-threatening injuries. The NCDOT reported 340 wrecks and 370 service calls statewide. A semi-truck was also hit by a train in Gastonia. The storm highlights the importance of safe driving during inclement weather.

What's next? Motorists should expect residual delays as traffic returns to normal. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential for significant disruptions during winter storms and the need for preparedness. Drivers are urged to exercise caution and adjust speeds to road conditions.