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Open Chronicle | With Agencies
Knoxville, Tennessee — A highway ramp in Knoxville was brought to a standstill for hours after a truck carrying an estimated one million bees crashed, releasing a massive swarm into the air and forcing authorities to temporarily close part of Interstate 40.
The incident occurred late Friday morning when a pickup transporting beehives overturned near the Henley Street exit, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
Drivers heard some extra buzzing on the highway after one million bees were released when a truck hauling them crashed.
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Drivers Told to Stay Inside Vehicles
As the bees spread rapidly across the area, officials urged motorists to remain inside their vehicles for safety.
The swarm clustered around the crash site and nearby roadway, creating hazardous conditions for both drivers and emergency crews.
Protective measures were quickly put in place as beekeepers, wearing full protective suits, worked alongside authorities to contain and relocate the insects.
Swift Response Prevents Injuries
Despite the dramatic scene, officials confirmed that no injuries were reported.
A spokesperson for the transportation department said the situation was brought under control once the truck was removed and the bees were safely recovered.
The affected ramp was eventually reopened after crews secured the area.
Agriculture Link to Large Bee Transport
Large shipments of bees are commonly transported across the United States to support pollination in agriculture, particularly for crops that depend heavily on managed bee populations.
While such operations are routine, incidents like this highlight the logistical risks involved in moving large numbers of hives over long distances.
Rare but Not Unprecedented
Though unusual, similar accidents have occurred in the past, including cases where millions of bees were released onto highways following transport crashes.
Authorities did not immediately confirm the cause of the accident, but the event serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise on busy transport routes.