Nearly 60 Vehicles Crash in Heavy Fog on Highway 99, Shutting Down Major Central California Route and Sending Multiple People to the Hospital

TULARE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — A massive crash involving nearly 60 vehicles shut down Highway 99 in both directions on Tuesday, leaving a chaotic scene of mangled cars, jackknifed trailers and widespread debris across one of Central California’s busiest corridors. Authorities say at least 10 people were transported to a local hospital following the pileup.

Highway 99 Closed After Multiple Vehicles Collide in Dense Conditions

The California Highway Patrol confirmed that 59 vehicles were involved in the multi-car collision. The crash forced the immediate closure of Highway 99 near the incident zone, halting traffic in both directions as emergency crews worked to reach victims and clear the roadway.

Images from the scene show crushed sedans, overturned trucks and commercial vehicles jammed tightly against one another, illustrating the severity of the chain-reaction impacts.

Emergency Crews Respond and Transport Injured Drivers

Authorities reported that at least 10 individuals suffered injuries significant enough to require hospital transport. Firefighters and paramedics from Tulare County worked through the wreckage to locate drivers, assess injuries and remove those who were trapped in their vehicles.

Crews also faced the challenge of navigating narrow openings between damaged vehicles while ensuring fuel leaks, debris and structural hazards were safely contained.

Visibility and Weather Conditions Under Review

While the exact cause of the pileup remains under investigation, early indications suggest that reduced visibility may have played a role. Fog is common along the Highway 99 corridor during parts of the winter season, and dense patches can develop quickly, creating dangerous conditions for drivers.

CHP investigators are gathering statements and evaluating roadway conditions to determine how the sequence of collisions unfolded.

Major Traffic Route Expected to Face Extended Delays

Highway 99 is a primary north–south route for Central California, and authorities warn that the closure could lead to significant regional delays as clean-up operations continue. Heavy tow equipment is being used to remove destroyed vehicles, and structural assessments of damaged trailers must be completed before lanes can safely reopen.

Officials have urged motorists in the region to avoid the area and use alternate routes until crews clear the roadway. For ongoing updates on major incidents across the West Coast, follow coverage at WingsPNW.com.