According to the Schuylkill Haven Borough Police Department, the southbound lanes of Route 61 are shut down beginning at Center Avenue and Dock Street. Southbound motorists are currently unable to proceed through that portion of the highway until further notice.
Northbound lanes opened just after 10:00am.
Truck traffic is receiving additional restrictions. Southbound tractor-trailers are strongly urged to exit onto Route 183 at Pottsville Street (Pottsville/Cressona), while northbound truck traffic must utilize the intersection of Route 61 and Manheim Road to turn onto East Main Street westbound.
The closure stems from a motor vehicle accident in which a tractor-trailer crashed and damaged several power poles, resulting in live electrical lines falling across the highway. Utility crews and emergency personnel remain on scene working to clear the hazards.
Officials estimate the roadway will be closed for approximately two hours as crews remove debris and establish a safe traffic pattern. Police urge drivers to plan ahead, seek alternate routes, and use caution when approaching the detour areas.
The Schuylkill Haven Borough Police Department will release updates as more information becomes available.