A section of Interstate 35E in Denton reopened Sunday evening after strong winds blew debris from a nearby construction site onto the roadway, forcing authorities to temporarily shut down lanes for safety.
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According to the Denton Police Department, the affected portion of the highway reopened shortly before 6 p.m. after crews cleared debris and determined the roadway was safe for drivers again.
The closure began earlier in the afternoon when gusty winds pushed loose materials from a nearby construction area onto the interstate, creating dangerous driving conditions for motorists.
Officials said northbound lanes of I-35E near Bonnie Brae Street were first closed around 1:42 p.m. after reports of debris blowing into traffic lanes.
Weather conditions played a major role in the disruption. A wind advisory remained in effect through the evening, with sustained northwest winds ranging from 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts reaching up to 50 mph.
As conditions worsened, authorities also shut down southbound lanes of Interstate 35E due to actively falling debris from the construction zone.
Traffic officials redirected southbound drivers to Interstate 35W while crews worked to remove debris and prevent further hazards.
Police urged motorists in the area to avoid the corridor and find alternate routes while cleanup operations were underway.
The closures created delays for drivers traveling through Denton County, particularly during the busy weekend traffic period.
The strong winds impacting the region Sunday caused disruptions beyond the highway closure.
Event organizers canceled a scheduled post-race performance by Grammy-winning artist T-Pain that was planned as part of the Good Ranchers Concert Series during the inaugural Java House Grand Prix of Arlington.
The combination of strong gusts and blowing debris raised safety concerns for both motorists and outdoor event attendees.
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Transportation officials frequently monitor construction areas during high-wind conditions because loose materials such as temporary barriers, tarps and lightweight equipment can easily become airborne.
In this case, officials said debris from the nearby construction site was carried directly onto Interstate 35E, prompting authorities to close the roadway until the hazard was cleared.
By early evening, crews successfully removed debris and confirmed the roadway was safe, allowing traffic to resume along the Denton stretch of the interstate.
Authorities continue to remind drivers to use caution when traveling during severe wind conditions, particularly near construction zones where loose materials may pose additional risks.
Originally reported by S.E. Jenkins in CBS News.
