Heavy fog along Highway 99 in California early on Saturday created dangerous driving conditions, leading to dozens of vehicles crashing in a pile-up that resulted in the closure of the highway in both directions.
An initial report had indicated that 150 vehicles had been involved in the pile-up, but the California Highway Patrol (CHP) later clarified that the true number was closer to 59.
The collisions occurred on both sides of the highway, with the first crash occurring near Earlimart, which authorities had warned drivers to avoid due to the hazardous conditions.
“Traffic Collision North and South Bound Highway 99 from Avenue 24, to Kern County line, Highway 99 is closed in both directions,” Tulare County Fire Department wrote on its Facebook page along with photos of wrecked cars between trucks. “Assistance from kern County Fire and Visalia City Fire, CHP is at scene.”
Correction 1/31/26, 6:20 p.m. ET: An earlier version of this report cited a figure of 150 vehicles based on initial reports, but subsequently estimates determined a smaller number of vehicles involved.
This is a breaking news story. Updates will follow.
