Interstate 5 was closed in both directions near Gorman, California, Friday as the fast-moving Ridge Fire burned near the major highway, sending smoke across the area and disrupting travel.
The California Highway Patrol reported the closure Friday afternoon as firefighters worked to slow the spread of the wildfire.
At approximately 4:15 p.m. PDT, CHP said traffic on both northbound and southbound I-5 was being turned around because of the fire and heavy smoke.
Northbound traffic was being turned around at Smokey Bear Road, while southbound vehicles were being redirected at Frazier Mountain Park Road.
At the time of the closure, authorities had not provided an estimated time for when the interstate would reopen.
Drivers were advised to avoid the affected section of I-5 and use alternate routes while emergency crews continued responding to the fire.
The closure created significant travel disruption on one of California’s most important north-south highways, which carries traffic between the Los Angeles region and communities farther north.
Smoke from the Ridge Fire spread across the area around Gorman, reducing visibility and creating additional concerns for motorists traveling near the wildfire.
Evacuation warnings were also reported for areas near the fire as officials monitored its spread and assessed potential threats to nearby communities.
The combination of the wildfire and highway closure created difficult conditions for motorists traveling through the area Friday.
Fire crews continued working to contain the blaze while authorities monitored changing conditions around the highway.
Drivers planning to travel through the Gorman area were urged to check current road conditions before beginning their journey and to follow instructions from law enforcement and emergency officials.
The Ridge Fire remained an active incident as firefighters worked to control its spread.
Additional road closures or changes to evacuation warnings could occur if the fire grows or conditions deteriorate.
Officials are expected to provide further updates on the fire and the status of Interstate 5 as the response continues.
Quick Facts
Location: Near Gorman, Los Angeles County, California
Fire: Ridge Fire
Highway affected: Interstate 5
Closure: I-5 closed in both directions
Northbound traffic: Turned around at Smokey Bear Road
Southbound traffic: Turned around at Frazier Mountain Park Road
Cause: Not confirmed in the available report
Additional impact: Smoke and travel disruption
Evacuation warnings: Reported near the fire
Road reopening: No estimated time initially provided
Status: Active wildfire and highway closure
Ridge Fire, Ridge Fire California, Gorman Fire, I-5 Closed, I-5 Closure, Interstate 5 Closed, California Wildfire, Los Angeles County Fire, Gorman California, I-5 Gorman, Ridge Fire Update, California Fire, Wildfire News, California Traffic, Breaking News