A tractor-trailer carrying almost 100 cows wrecked around 7 a.m. today in the 4200 block of Jae Valley Road (Virginia 116) in Roanoke County, near the Franklin County line. Both lanes of Va. 116 are expected to be closed until at least 6 p.m. to finish the cleanup.

Roanoke County police say the driver was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.

The tractor-trailer was hauling 88 cattle, and only 33 of the animals survived the crash, police said.

The tractor-trailer was traveling north on Jae Valley Road to an out-of-state location, police said.  While taking a curve at the 4200 block, the cattle hauler fell onto its side and skidded off the road. A tree kept the trailer from continuing to roll down a steep embankment.

Tow trucks have been brought to the scene to stabilize the overturned trailer while crews work on removing the cattle. One by one, the cows are being chained to a front-end loader and dragged up the embankment and placed on another truck. A fence has been put at the back of the wrecked trailer so the cattle can't escape.

Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes, as the wreck will significantly delay traffic in the area.

The Virginia Department of Transportation reports that traffic on Va. 116 is being detoured as follows:

Drivers should take Va. 659 (Mayfield Drive) to Va. 617 (Pitzer Road) to Va. 803 (Coopers Cove Road).