Fireworks expected to cause traffic problems along two Valley highways

YAKIMA, Wash. -- The Washington State Department of Transportation is warning motorists to be careful along two highways at Naches and Yakima where fireworks will be set off today and Saturday.

The first event will take place today on U.S. Highway 12 near Cleman's View Park and Sports Complex. The DOT is installing traffic congestion warning signs in the area. Event coordinators say there's enough parking at the park and are encouraging visitors not to park along the highway.

In Yakima, WSDOT maintenance crews are working with the Washington State Patrol to reduce the potential of traffic gridlock during the fireworks display at State Fair Park on Saturday.

The Interstate 82 eastbound off-ramp to eastbound Nob Hill Boulevard at exit 34 will close at about 9:45 p.m. Traffic coming into Yakima westbound on Highway 24 will be routed to I-82 westbound during the fireworks display -- which will reduce traffic congestion at the intersection of 18th Street and Nob Hill.

The roadway will reopen immediately after traffic from the event exits the fairgrounds.