On February 21, 2025, commuters faced significant disruptions on two major New York roadways due to separate incidents occurring in the early morning hours. At 7:24 AM, a crash was reported on I-81 northbound, affecting traffic between Exit 54 (Old Exit 12) at US 11, NY 41, and NY 281 in the Cortlandville area, and Exit 62 (Old Exit 13) at NY 281 in Preble. This incident resulted in the closure of the right lane, causing delays for those traveling through the Cortland and Homer regions. I-81 is a critical corridor for residents and travelers in this part of New York, connecting various communities and serving as a vital link for both local and long-distance traffic.
Just a minute later, at 7:25 AM, another incident unfolded on the NYS Thruway (I-90) westbound, where a vehicle caught fire before Exit 32 at Westmoreland (Rte 233). This section of the Thruway is a key route for those traveling across the state, linking major cities and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The vehicle fire added to the morning’s traffic woes, as emergency services worked to manage the situation and ensure the safety of all road users.
Both incidents highlight the importance of staying informed about real-time traffic conditions, especially on busy roadways like I-81 and I-90, which are essential for daily commutes and interstate travel. Travelers in the affected areas were advised to seek alternate routes and expect delays as authorities worked to clear the scenes and restore normal traffic flow.