AUGUSTA — A large pothole on Interstate 95 in Augusta has caused “significant traffic tie-ups” on Friday afternoon, according to Maine State Police.

A large pothole has forced the closure of the passing lane on I-95 southbound near Mile 109 in Augusta just north of the Exit 109B off-ramp. Maine Department of Transportation crews are currently patching the pothole that is approximately 15 feet long by 2 feet wide and 6 to 8 inches deep. State Police are on scene directing traffic. Crews expect to have the lane reopened in time for the evening commute.

The trouble spot is in the southbound lanes near the Old Winthrop Road overpass in Augusta. At least five vehicles have been damaged, including an SUV that overturned. Two others collided with each other, sending one person to the hospital with minor injuries. At least two other vehicles have sustained flat tires.

At 3:30 traffic was backed up about three miles in the southbound lanes.