2 p.m. Update, the roadway is now clear for travel.

NATCHEZ — Natchez Police Chief Cal Green cautions drivers to avoid Seargent Prentiss Drive between the Melrose Avenue and John R. Junkin Drive intersections where an 18-wheeler apparently “dumped its load” on Monday afternoon, she said.

The hauler lost a load of metal that is completely blocking the southbound lanes, Green said, adding drivers should steer clear and detour around the area until it can be cleaned up.

Commander Jerry Ford said the Basset Trucking driver stated a car swerved into his lane, causing him to swerve. This caused the straps to break on his truck and the load of metal to spill out on the roadway.

This story will be updated with more details.