Overturned Semi Blocks Interstate

UPDATE: Illinois State Police told us Saturday afternoon at 3pm that I-57/70 in this area has reopened to traffic. Officials urge drivers to use caution in the construction zone through Effingham.

An overturned semi blocked the eastbound and northbound lanes of I-57 and I-70 on the north side of Effingham this morning.

The semi overturned right at the 4th Street overpass sometime after 4am. One lane of eastbound I-70/northbound I-57 was re-opened about 7:10am. The rig is too badly damaged to be towed from the scene and its cargo of frozen food had to be off-loaded by hand before the trailer could be removed.

The driver had to be extricated. He was taken to HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham for treatment.