UPDATE (Oct. 17, 8 a.m.): As of early Saturday morning, the Henderson Fire has burned 3,132 acres and is at 35% containment, according to Cal Fire.
The California Highway Patrol reopened both directions of Interstate 5 near Vandegrift Boulevard early Friday evening.
Cal Fire officials said crews made some progress overnight against the fire with winds decreasing and an increase in humidity.
On Saturday, crews are expected to focus efforts on the northern part of the blaze.
Cal Fire’s detailed info on the Henderson Fire: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2026/10/15/henderson-fire.
Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton has reopened following an hours-long closure due to the Henderson Fire.
The California Highway Patrol announced Friday afternoon that the fire prompted all northbound lanes to be closed near Vandegrift Boulevard.
Officials say Santa Ana winds pushed the fire westward, reducing visibility.
As of Friday night, the fire had grown to just over 2,000 acres and was 20% contained.
The fire was first reported just before 2 p.m. Thursday. The blaze rapidly grew in size and pushed west, prompting the freeway shutdown during the afternoon commute and creating a traffic nightmare for drivers traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles.
The cause has not yet been determined and is under investigation.
🚨 TRAFFIC ALERT: HENDERSON FIRE 🚨 As of 5:13 PM, ALL NORTHBOUND AND SOUTHBOUND of I-5 are OPEN! The freeway closure is fully lifted. Thank you for your continued patience.
— CHP Oceanside Area (@CHP_Oceanside) October 17, 2026