I-77 reopens after train snags power lines in south Charlotte; power restored for 2,000

CHARLOTTE — A train snagged powerlines across Interstate 77, closing it in both directions in south Charlotte Monday morning, according to Duke Energy. Thousands were without power.

The incident, which closed the interstate between Tyvola Road and Billy Graham Parkway, caused major backups for drivers on their morning commute.

According to a spokesperson for Norfolk Southern, the train hit low-hanging lines that were over a railroad track Sunday night, which then fell across I-77. Norfolk Southern said it was working with Duke Energy to hold train traffic until the repair was complete.

The incident and power outage forced two Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to close Monday, officials said -- Performance Learning Center and Nations Ford Elementary School.

During the closure, traffic was diverted off the interstate at Tyvola Road, to Nations Ford Road, onto Tryon Street and then back onto I-77. The interstate reopened in both directions at about 8:45 a.m. Monday.

The incident happened just before 11 p.m. Sunday night and left at least 2,900 people without power, according to Duke Energy.

The power was initially expected to be restored by 6 p.m. Monday but officials later updated the estimate to 10 a.m.

The Charlotte Area Transit System told riders to expect bus delays in the area.

(WATCH: Duke Energy spokesperson talks about downed powerlines on I-77 in south Charlotte)

WATCH: Duke Energy spokesperson talks about downed powerlines on I-77 in south Charlotte

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