Deadly Pileups on I-55 in Louisiana Caused by Smoke and Fog

Multiple pileups occurred on Interstate 55 in Louisiana due to smoke and fog, resulting in deaths and injuries. The accidents were caused by a chain reaction crash and reduced visibility. Smoke from wildfires burning in marshes combined with developing fog, creating "superfog" and drastically reducing visibility for motorists. The conditions affected miles of I-55 between Ponchatoula and LaPlace. Locals had been complaining about the strong smell of smoke for days. The fires were caused by a lightning strike and were difficult to contain due to the surrounding water.