A multi-vehicle crash on westbound State Route 52 near Santee prompted a SigAlert early Wednesday morning, snarling traffic during the peak commute hour and backing up drivers from Cuyamaca Street to Summit Avenue.

The California Highway Patrol reported the incident shortly before 7 a.m., noting that the crash occurred east of Summit Avenue and blocked the number two and three lanes. Drivers were advised to expect extended delays and consider alternate routes.

CHP crews responded to the scene to investigate the cause of the crash and work to clear the roadway. The lane closures were expected to last approximately one hour, according to the CHP.

Westbound SR-52 is a primary commute corridor connecting Santee and El Cajon residents to Mission Valley and central San Diego. Morning crashes on this stretch routinely cause significant backup into the East County communities that rely on it.

Drivers traveling westbound Wednesday morning were encouraged to use Mission Gorge Road or Interstate 8 as alternate routes while the scene was cleared. No information on injuries was immediately available.