ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A section of N.C. Highway 9 in Polk County was closed Monday afternoon following a vehicle crash, according to state transportation officials.

The closure is near Burt Blackwell Road, north of Columbus, and is expected to remain in place until about 3 p.m.

Traffic is being detoured. Southbound drivers are directed to Garret Road to Silver Creek Road before returning to N.C. 9, while northbound motorists are asked to use the reverse route.

Officials said the crash is expected to cause significant delays in the area.