A toppled 18-wheeler disrupted a key Hill Country commute Friday, blocking southbound U.S. 87 between Fredericksburg and Comfort and causing miles of traffic backups. The truck reportedly clipped a guardrail, rolled into a shallow creek, and became wedged, requiring hours of work to free it as drivers used alternate routes.
Sheriff Chris Ayala warned that the closure could last all day and urged drivers to slow down on slick roads. Around 9 a.m., a tractor-trailer hit a guardrail and crashed into a creek, blocking southbound lanes out of Fredericksburg (MySanAntonio). Deputies rerouted northbound traffic onto Texas 16 toward Interstate 10 while crews worked the scene. Ayala added that conditions were slippery and advised drivers to use alternate routes.
Weather And Road Conditions
The timing couldn’t be worse. An Arctic front will bring freezing rain and icy roads to the Hill Country this weekend, complicating cleanup and travel. Forecasts show up to a quarter-inch of ice in parts of the region (San Antonio Express-News), making U.S. 87 especially hazardous for truck drivers.
Alternate Routes And Delays
Officials advised drivers to Boerne to detour via FM 1376 at U.S. 290 East. Commuters on U.S. 87 should expect major delays. Southbound traffic may also be delayed as crews tow the truck (MySanAntonio). Deputies set up detours and advised avoiding the area.
How Drivers Can Stay Safe
Officials say anyone heading out should check conditions before they roll and keep a basic winter kit in the car. Real-time road updates are available at DriveTexas or by dialing 511. Local forecasters remind drivers that bridges and shaded stretches of asphalt freeze first, so slowing down, leaving extra space and resisting the urge to brake hard are key while recovery and tow crews finish the job on U.S. 87.
