Major Traffic Disruption as Downed Power Line Forces Closure of I-17 Near Black Canyon City
A stretch of Interstate 17 near Black Canyon City was completely shut down in both directions last night due to a fallen power line blocking all lanes.
The closure occurred around mile marker 243, just north of Black Canyon City. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), the downed utility line has made the freeway impassable in both northbound and southbound directions.
ADOT first reported the incident via Twitter at approximately 9:59 PM local time on December 14, 2023. As of the morning of December 15, I-17 remains closed near Black Canyon City and officials have not provided an estimated time for reopening.
No details have been released regarding the cause of the downed power line. The unexpected road closure has created major traffic issues in the area, forcing many drivers to seek alternate routes around the blockage.
ADOT is advising motorists to expect lengthy delays if traveling through the area. Drivers should consider postponing travel or taking extensive detours using US-89 and State Route 69 to bypass the closure.
Authorities will provide updates on Twitter when the damaged utility line has been repaired and I-17 can safely reopen near Black Canyon City. In the meantime, drivers in the area are urged to proceed with extreme caution.
