Snowstorm triggers large pile-up on I-70 in western Indiana

A large chain-reaction crash involving about 45 vehicles occurred on Interstate 70 westbound near Terre Haute, Indiana, at around 10:00 LT on November 29, 2025, amid heavy snowfall and reduced visibility. The collision blocked all westbound lanes for nearly 6 hours, but authorities reported no fatalities or major injuries. The event happened as a winter storm system brought snow and freezing rain across parts of Illinois and Indiana, creating hazardous travel conditions.

A major multi-vehicle pile-up occurred on Interstate 70 westbound, approximately 15 km (9 miles) west of Terre Haute, Indiana, around 10:00 local time on November 29.

According to the Indiana State Police (ISP), an estimated 45 vehicles were involved in a chain-reaction crash triggered by snow-covered pavement and rapidly deteriorating visibility.

Initial estimates from first responders suggested 20 to 30 vehicles, but the number rose as tow and emergency crews assessed additional collisions and slide-offs along the route. The westbound lanes remained closed for approximately 6 hours while crews removed wreckage and treated the roadway surface. Traffic was diverted through State Road 46 and other local routes until early afternoon.

Despite the scale of the incident, ISP reported no fatalities and no serious injuries. Several drivers and passengers sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene by local emergency medical services.

The pile-up coincided with a broad winter storm affecting much of the Midwest during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter weather advisories for western Indiana and eastern Illinois, forecasting snow accumulations of 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) and wind gusts up to 45 km/h (28 mph). The combination of fresh snow, ice, and strong winds created rapidly changing road conditions that reduced visibility to less than 400 m (1 300 feet) in some areas.

State police and transport agencies urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel throughout the region until conditions improved. By the evening of November 29, roads were partially cleared, and snowfall had diminished as temperatures remained below −3°C (27°F).

Featured image: Snowstorm triggers large pile-up on I-70 in western Indiana on November 29, 2025. Credit: INDOT