The Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office is assisting with traffic control due to the emergency closure of southbound Interstate 49, just north of the Martin Luther King Jr. Drive interchange, according to SHeriff Henry Whitehorn Sr.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has closed all southbound lanes after extreme heat caused the concrete roadway to buckle, resulting in hazardous driving conditions. Southbound traffic is being detoured off I-49 at LA 1 (North Market Street) while DOTD crews conduct emergency repairs. Motorists should anticipate delays in the area and are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible.

Roadway buckling, often referred to as a "blow-up," can occur during periods of extreme heat when concrete pavement expands quickly, leading to sudden heaving of roadway sections.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office urges motorists to slow down, remain alert, and follow the directions of deputies and traffic control devices while traveling through the affected area. Drivers are also reminded to allow extra travel time and exercise caution as repair crews work along the interstate.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office will continue to assist with traffic control until the roadway is reopened. Updates will be provided as they become available. 

For the most current information on road conditions, motorists are advised to check updates from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for further travel details.

For questions regarding this press release, please contact Breck Scott