Baltimore’s Harbor Tunnel Abruptly Shuts Down, Inducing Traffic MayhemBaltimore’s Harbor Tunnel Abruptly Shuts Down, Inducing Traffic Mayhem Baltimore was thrown into transportation turmoil on Wednesday as the city’s crucial Harbor Tunnel was unexpectedly closed due to electrical issues. The unanticipated shutdown has plunged the area into traffic chaos, stranding thousands of commuters and disrupting daily routines. The Harbor Tunnel, which carries traffic under the Patapsco River, is a vital artery for Baltimore, linking the city with Brooklyn and Anne Arundel County. Its closure has severed an essential transportation route, forcing drivers to seek alternative paths. As a result, traffic is crawling on surrounding roads, with gridlock reported on Interstate 95, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, and local thoroughfares. Commuters are facing hours-long delays, with some reporting spending more than six hours just to get to work. The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced the closure shortly after 6:00 AM, stating that an electrical issue had caused the tunnel’s ventilation system to malfunction. MDOT crews are working diligently to resolve the problem, but there is no estimated time for reopening. Mayor Brandon Scott expressed concern over the closure’s impact on the city. “This is a critical transportation hub for Baltimore,” he said. “We are urging drivers to seek alternate routes and to allow extra time for travel.” Public transportation is also affected by the closure, with several bus lines rerouted or canceled. The Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA) has increased service on other routes to accommodate displaced commuters. The sudden shutdown of the Harbor Tunnel has highlighted the region’s vulnerability to transportation disruptions. Officials are urging residents to prepare for delays and to consider telecommuting or carpooling as alternatives. As of now, the Harbor Tunnel remains closed and traffic chaos continues. MDOT will provide updates on the situation as they become available.