HOUSTON – Traffic is backed up on Houston’s south side after a large fire shut down the southbound lanes of I-45 near Bay Area Boulevard, not far from Baybrook Mall.
We are working to gather more details, but here’s what we know so far.
Video captured shows heavy flames and thick smoke rising near the freeway. The fire appears to be burning close to the southbound lanes of I-45.
Traffic cameras from Houston TranStar also showed flames in the area, with vehicles quickly stacking up as drivers are forced to slow down or reroute.
At this time, it is unclear what sparked the fire or whether anyone has been injured.
KPRC 2 has reached out to the Houston Fire Department and TxDOT for more information about the cause of the fire and how long the southbound lanes will remain closed.
Drivers are urged to avoid southbound I-45 near Bay Area Boulevard and Baybrook Mall while crews work the scene.
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About the AuthorsNinfa Saavedra headshotRicky Munoz headshotRicky Munoz
Ricky Muñoz is a reporter for KPRC 2 in Houston, telling stories that connect, inform, and build trust with viewers across television, digital, and social platforms. His reporting spans accountability, public safety, immigration, culture, and community issues—always centering the voices of the people most affected.
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