This browser does not support the Video element.
Novato crash, fire, downed power lines affecting US Highway 101
A crash involving possible injuries, a fire, and downed power lines on Thursday morning affected traffic on US Highway 101 near Highway 37.
NOVATO, Calif. - An elderly woman driving a white Jeep hit a power pole, which came down and started a small brush fire on Thursday morning, affecting traffic on US Highway 101 near Highway 37 for roughly two hours, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Crash, fire, downed lines
What we know:
Downed power lines caused thousands of outages in Novato. July 30, 2026
The woman suffered minor injuries, and it wasn't clear what caused her to veer into a power pole about 9:30 a.m. along the highway, officials said.
Novato police said that the interchange was closed in both directions at South Novato Boulevard because of the crash and small brush fire.
In addition, PG&E said that more than 6,000 customers were without power as a result of the downed power line.
All lanes of US Highway 101 reopened about 11 a.m., according to the CHP.
SkyFox flew overhead, showing aerials of long lines of traffic and fire crews hacking away at the long grass.
The white Jeep was spotted off to the side, left abandoned amidst some charred grass and downed lines. A tow truck cleared the scene about 11:30 a.m.
This browser does not support the Video element.
Crash, power lines down in Novato affecting US Highway 101
Crash, power lines down in Novato affecting US Highway 101.
SkyFox flew overhead, showing aerials of long lines of traffic and fire crews hacking away at the long grass. July 30, 2026
The Source: Novato police, PG&E, aerials from SkyFox, CHP Marin, Bay City News.