A massive chain-reaction crash involving dozens of vehicles shut down both directions of Highway 99 in central California early Saturday as dense fog created dangerous driving conditions, officials said.
According to County of Tulare Fire, the collision stretched across the northbound and southbound lanes from Avenue 24 to the Kern County line, forcing the Golden State Highway to close completely.
County officials initially reported about 150 vehicles were estimated to be involved in the crash, but later updated that number to 59.
The crash occurred near Earlimart, where authorities warned motorists to avoid travel during heavy fog.
Photos released by county officials show crushed passenger vehicles wedged between semi-trucks, cars torn open by the force of impact and debris scattered across multiple lanes — illustrating the sheer scale of the pileup.
“During dense fog avoid travel and DO NOT rely on automatic headlights,” officials said. “Because it is not dark, headlights and tail lights are not illuminated and your vehicle is nearly impossible to see. Make sure to manually turn on your headlights so others have a chance to see you.”
Tulare County Fire said assistance was requested from Kern County Fire and Visalia City Fire, while California Highway Patrol officers remained on scene as emergency crews worked through the wreckage.
Authorities had not immediately released information about injuries or fatalities. Traffic remained at a standstill for hours as responders cleared damaged vehicles and assessed the scene.
Drivers were urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes while crews worked to reopen the highway.
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