Drivers encountered a traffic hazard -- and the invigorating scent of limes -- early Thursday when a citrus fruit truck overturned on the northbound 101 Freeway in the Studio City area.

The load of limes spilled out of a truck and onto the northbound 101 Freeway near the 170 Freeway interchange.



The limes and lime juice -- freshly squeezed under the tires of passing vehicles -- covered several lanes. Traffic was slow through the area at about 6 a.m. as workers with brooms pushed the limes to the side of the road. An LAFD e-mail alert described road conditions as "similar to ice."

Traffic was backing up to Barham Boulevard on the northbound 101 Freeway. Traffic on the westbound 134 Freeway also was affected by the spill, resulting in a backup that extended to the Pasadena area.

The Tujunga Boulevard on-ramp to the northbound 101 Freeway reopened at about 7:40 a.m. At about 9 a.m., all lanes were closed as firefighters used high-pressure hoses to spray water on the freeway.

The road reopened at about 10 a.m.

The truck was on its side near the side of the freeway. There were no reports of injuries.

Refresh this page for updates.