Massive Part of Wyoming’s Teton Pass Collapses

Highway Roadway Fails in Dramatic Collapse

Crews Work to Repair Crumbling Infrastructure

JACKSON, Wyo. (CBS) — A massive chunk of a twisting mountain highway collapsed Saturday as crews worked to repair a crumbling roadway, Wyoming officials said.

Part of Teton Pass, a crucial highway weaving through the mountains of western Wyoming and a well-known route for tourists headed to Jackson Hole, failed dramatically Saturday morning, the Wyoming Department of Transportation said.

No injuries were reported, but the collapse left a gaping hole in the road and forced officials to close the pass, which is likely to remain closed for an extended period.

The collapse occurred around 9:30 a.m. Saturday, just a day after cracks were reported in the roadway. The cause of the collapse is under investigation but is believed to be related to the recent heavy rains and snowmelt that have caused flooding and mudslides in the area.

Crews have already begun working to assess the extent of the damage and begin repairs. However, officials said motorists should expect the pass to be closed for an extended period.

"This is a major roadway, and we're working as quickly as we can to get it reopened. But we need to make sure it's safe first," said Wyoming Department of Transportation spokesman Cody Beers.

In the meantime, motorists are advised to use alternative routes to get around the pass. The closest alternate route is Highway 22, which runs north of Teton Pass.