**HOUSTON** — The Greater Houston area endured a particularly challenging Friday, March 13, 2026, with emergency responders handling 1,235 traffic incidents throughout the day, including 483 major crashes and 752 minor incidents. The high volume of incidents created widespread congestion across the region's major thoroughfares and local roadways.
Harris County bore the brunt of Friday's traffic woes, accounting for 1,157 of the day's incidents. Fort Bend County reported 52 incidents, while Montgomery County documented 13 incidents. Galveston and Milam counties rounded out the regional total with 8 and 5 incidents respectively. The late evening hours proved particularly hazardous, with a concentration of serious collisions reported after 10:30 p.m., several of which involved fatalities. Emergency personnel responded to fatal crashes at multiple locations including Harwin Drive, Griggs Road, Woodland Park Drive, Murworth Drive, and Southwest Freeway, underscoring the severity of conditions throughout the evening.
Major incidents Friday included multiple crashes on critical corridors such as Interstate 610, Interstate 69, U.S. 59, and the Tomball Tollway. The Harwin Drive corridor and Braeswood Boulevard area were particularly problematic, with several accidents reported in close proximity. First responders also addressed non-traffic related hazards, including an open manhole near Oak Forest Drive and a vehicle carjacking near Scott Street and Barberry Drive.
Motorists traveling in the Houston area should remain vigilant and exercise extra caution during peak traffic hours. Drivers are advised to reduce speeds, maintain adequate following distances, and avoid distractions while operating vehicles. Commuters are encouraged to check real-time traffic conditions and consider alternative routes when available. Additionally, anyone witnessing a traffic incident should contact local authorities immediately.
Houston Area
Multiple County, Texas
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