Residents in a Texas town were forced to take cover after millions of bees escaped when a truck transporting beehives overturned on a motorway, triggering a massive emergency response.
The unusual incident unfolded near Mauriceville on Sunday when an 18-wheeler carrying hundreds of beehives crashed and overturned, releasing an estimated two million bees into the surrounding area.
Authorities quickly issued a warning urging residents to remain indoors and avoid the swarms.
“Everyone that lives in the affected area, please remain indoors,” local emergency services said in a public alert.
“An 18-wheeler carrying beehives has turned over and there is a heavy presence of bees in the area.”
The dramatic scene saw countless bees swarming roads, vehicles, trees and nearby properties as officials scrambled to prevent injuries and restore control.
In an effort to contain the situation, authorities appealed to local beekeepers for help.
Dozens of beekeepers from across the region answered the call, arriving in protective suits to assist in recovering the escaped insects and salvaging the damaged hives.
Photographs from the scene showed teams of beekeepers dressed in white protective gear working together to manage the enormous swarms.
One local supplier, Queen Bee Supply, praised the community effort on social media.
“Not something you ever want to see, but it’s wonderful to see beekeepers helping fellow beekeepers,” the company wrote.
“From commercial operators to backyard hobbyists, we’re grateful to everyone who came out to help.”
Later that day, authorities confirmed that the bees were being safely collected and transferred to local honey farms and replacement hives.
“Crews are continuing to safely transfer the hives onto transport trucks, which will then be taken to a local honey farm,” officials said in an update.
Despite the chaos, remarkably no serious injuries were reported, although several people were believed to have suffered minor bee stings.
Residents in the immediate area were nevertheless advised to remain cautious until all recovery operations had been completed.
The bizarre bee invasion is the latest in a series of unusual highway incidents reported across the United States.
Earlier this month, a truck carrying fireworks in Tennessee caught fire and accidentally launched a spectacular roadside fireworks display, while another lorry transporting ribeye steaks burst into flames during a separate crash.
For Mauriceville residents, however, Sunday’s unexpected bee storm was likely one of the most unforgettable traffic accidents they have ever witnessed.
