Icy roads cause multiple wrecks across Triangle

Interstate 40 eastbound between N.C. Highway 42 (exit 312) and N.C. Highway 210 (exit 319) was closed for over an hour Monday night due to a vehicle accident.

Traffic was down to one lane on Interstate 440 westbound at Wade Avenue at about 7 p.m. due to another accident.

State troopers reported vehicle accidents along Interstate 540 and on Interstate 40 near Aviation Parkway.

Interstate 540 westbound was closed between Leesville Road and Creedmoor Road at about 10 p.m. due to icy roads.

"One the sun set, we lost the little bit that was holding the roads together," WRAL meteorologist Nate Johnson said.

Spotty showers are expected throughout the evening after rain fell in Raleigh and mixed precipitation was present in areas north and west.

With temperatures dropping to 18 degrees Monday night, there is potential for wet roads to freeze, WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel said.

“Travel will be incredibly risky throughout the evening,” he said. "The roads are not going to get any better over the next few hours."

A few accidents were reported on bridges and ramps across the area, including one in Durham County on the ramp from U.S. Highway 70 westbound onto Interstate 85 south.

Raleigh officials announced they are treating bridges and major roads with salt for potential sleet and ice.

At Raleigh-Durham International Airport, 150 flights were canceled Monday. On average, 400 flights arrive and leave the airport daily.