A huge multi-vehicle accident shut down Interstate-79 South near Erie yesterday. Witnesses say that swooping winds and squalling snow made for treacherous visibility conditions Thursday morning.

The sequence of accidents began just after 9:00 a.m., involving 29 total vehicles–twenty-six cars and three commercial tractor trailers. The interstate was closed between the McKean and Edinboro exits for about three hours and didn't reopen until shortly after noon, causing miles of backups and extensive delays.

Luckily, no one was killed in the accident, but at least five people were taken to UPMC Hamot in Erie to be treated, and thousands worth of vehicle damage was suffered.

One of the first drivers to be involved in the accident told reporters that someone rear-ended him and spun his car sideways, separated, then slid into his driver's side door again, pinning it shut. Fortunately, that driver wasn't injured, but he fears his car may be totaled. He added that drivers' concern for the well-being of himself and other wrecked cars was nice to see and a welcoming sight after such an ordeal.

Other drivers who thought they had stopped and were out of harm's way were rear-ended or side-swiped, as well. Most of those involved said that they weren't sure how the accident happened, but that road conditions were slippery and there were times of near-whiteout situations.

Pennsylvania State Police say that there is no indication that anyone was speeding or fell asleep at the wheel, but rather that it was likely just poor road surface conditions that was the culprit for the crashes.

With more than 120 inches of snow so far this winter, 2013-2014 ranks as the ninth worst winter season in Erie's history. And there may be more to come. Forecasters are predicted another major snow storm to move in Sunday night into Monday morning that could bring another foot into the area.

Source: GoErie.com, "29-vehicle crash closes I-79 for 3 hours" 28 February 2014