Drivers faced significant delays Friday afternoon after a Hudson Link bus erupted in flames on the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, prompting an extensive emergency response and lane closures on one of the region’s busiest roadways.
The fire broke out at approximately 1:49 p.m. on the southbound side of I-87, just before Exit 10, according to traffic monitoring service 511NY. Thick black smoke billowed from the vehicle as motorists slowed to a standstill across the span.
Multiple fire departments from surrounding communities were dispatched to the scene. Emergency crews quickly shut down the right and center lanes to give firefighters room to attack the blaze. The Monsey Scoop was among the first to identify the vehicle as a Hudson Link bus.
Authorities confirmed that all passengers and the driver were able to evacuate safely before the flames intensified. No injuries were reported.
Traffic soon backed up across the eastbound side of the bridge as responders worked to extinguish the fire and secure the area. Motorists were urged to expect heavy delays throughout the early afternoon while crews managed cleanup operations and awaited removal of the damaged bus.
The Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge—formerly the Tappan Zee Bridge—serves as a crucial connection between Rockland and Westchester counties. Friday’s fire caused ripple effects across the region’s transportation network, slowing travel across multiple corridors.
Officials have not yet determined the cause of the fire. All lanes are expected to reopen once the scene has been fully cleared.