PORT ARTHUR, Texas — A marsh fire burning in South Jefferson County has sent smoke blowing north Friday morning and caused traffic problems.
Texas Highway 73 in Port Arthur was shut down in both directions just after 8:30 a.m. due to heavy smoke and multiple accidents according to the Texas Department of Transportation's Beaumont district.
West bound lanes were closed at U.S. Highway 69 and both westbound and eastbound lanes were closed at West Port Arthur Rd according to TxDOT.
The agency suggested that drivers in the area take West Port Arthur Rd north to FM 365 to detour around the area and head west.
Drivers were asked to avoid driving through residential areas such as Jade Ave as the smoke is affecting them as well and some are being barricaded according to TxDOT.
Barricades are also being placed along Texas Highway 73 at Hazel Ave, Jade Ave., and Ray Ave.
The fire is deep in the marsh south of Highway 73 and has been burning for at least a week or more according to Port Arthur Fire Chief Greg Benson.
The wind is blowing west to east and pushing the smoke into Port Arthur and across the highway he said.
Friday morning's fog also contributed to the situation as the fog keeps the smoke low to the ground Benson told 12News.
The fire has not threatened any structures and it is actually unclear exactly whose property the fire is burning on he said.
Drivers need to stay aware in this situation and keep looking out their windshields and not at their phones Benson told 12News Friday morning.
GET NEWS & WEATHER ALERTS | Download the 12News App to your mobile device
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
