Grassfire slows I-65 traffic between Montgomery and Prattville, crews respond

Heavy smoke from a grassfire slowed traffic on Interstate 65 in Autauga County, disrupting the main corridor between Montgomery and Prattville as fire crews responded to contain the blaze. An ALGO Traffic camera showed fire and thick smoke along the interstate, underscoring how quickly a roadside fire can affect one of the county’s busiest commuter routes.

The grassfire was reported April 20, 2026, and the impact was felt along the stretch of I-65 that carries daily traffic between the Montgomery metro area and Prattville. WSFA 12 News reported that drivers traveling north and south through the corridor needed to be aware of the smoke as crews worked the scene.

Autauga County residents who rely on Interstate 65 for work, school and routine travel faced the kind of slowdown that can spread far beyond the immediate fire area. Even when a blaze stays small, smoke drifting over the roadway can force drivers to reduce speed, increase following distance and watch for sudden lane changes near the scene.

The incident also put attention on the vulnerability of this stretch of interstate to roadside fire hazards. With traffic camera access and live updates through ALGO Traffic, drivers were able to see conditions change along the corridor as crews moved in to control the fire. The camera image that showed flames and heavy smoke served as a reminder that a grassfire on the shoulder can become a commuter problem within minutes.

I-65 between Montgomery and Prattville remains a critical link for Autauga County, and any disruption there can ripple through the morning and afternoon travel patterns that tie the county to the state capital. The April 20 fire added another example of how quickly weather, dry grass and roadside conditions can affect public safety and movement along the interstate.