Brush Fire Halts Traffic On 5 Freeway In LA County

SYLMAR, CA — A brush fire burning along the 5 Freeway in the San Fernando Valley prompted a SigAlert Wednesday morning as more than 100 firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

The fire broke out around 9:45 a.m. near the 14 Freeway interchange, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. It had scorched about two acres of medium brush on the west side of the freeway, officials said.

Forward progress of the fire was stopped by about 10:30 a.m., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Los Angeles city and county firefighters responded with air and ground resources.

The California Highway Patrol issued a SigAlert for four lanes on the northbound side of the 5 Freeway near the 14 Freeway. The lanes were expected to remain closed for an unknown period because of the fire.

Only the carpool lane and two left lanes were open as of 10:30 a.m.

Traffic was backed up seven miles to Roxford Street, according to the Sigalert.

Motorists were warned to expect delays of up to an hour.

Officials said the blaze was not threatening any structures.

No injuries were reported.