GAINESVILLE -- The northbound lanes of Interstate 75 have reopened after a series of early morning crashes left at least ten people dead.

Southbound lanes remain closed from Gainesville to Reddick.

Fog and heavy smoke from a brush fire clouded the area, leaving drivers blinded and causing numerous wrecks.

Florida Highway Patrol said the pileups happened around 3:45 a.m. on both sides of I-75 south of Gainesville. All lanes of the interstate - there are three lanes running each direction - remained closed for more than 12 hours while crews worked to clear the burned wreckage.

At least 18 people hurt in the wreck were taken to area hospitals for treatment.

Traffic is being diverted onto U.S. 301 and State Road 27.