71 Freeway in Pomona reopens after shutting down for 2nd time this month due to potholes

POMONA, Calif. (KABC) -- One week after potholes forced the closure of the 71 Freeway in Pomona, overnight Tuesday the freeway was again shut down in both directions for the same reason.

All lanes were closed Wednesday morning, but Caltrans reopened all north and southbound lanes in the area as of Wednesday afternoon.

At least 15 vehicles with flat tires were reported on the right shoulder of the freeway at 10 p.m. Tuesday near Valley Boulevard, according to a California Highway Patrol incident log.

No crashes or injuries were reported.

Caltrans offers up to $10,000 to drivers whose vehicles have been damaged by potholes on California freeways -- a program of renewed significance amid the roadway hazards caused by the recent series of atmospheric rivers that have drenched the state.

The closure lasted overnight and snarled traffic during the morning commute. Motorists were being diverted off the freeway at Holt Avenue.

Caltrans workers were seen filling potholes with gravel and using motorized air blowers on the holes after they were filled in.

A similar incident occurred last week, when more than 30 vehicles were damaged by potholes on the freeway at the same location.