Interstate 5, which runs from San Clemente to Oceanside, has been notorious for its traffic congestion, serving as a critical artery between Los Angeles and San Diego. This weekend, traffic delays are expected to intensify as the U.S. military has scheduled live artillery firing over the freeway in Southern California. The planned military operation will temporarily close a 17-mile stretch of the freeway, affecting the coastal region of northern San Diego County, just south of the Orange County border.
The closure of Interstate 5 commenced at 11 a.m. and was anticipated to last until 3 p.m. However, by noon, the California Highway Patrol had reopened the freeway, with plans to implement a traffic break during the live ammunition firing set for 1:30 p.m., as confirmed by Oceanside Assistant Police Chief John McKean. This military event, involving live ammunition, is directed by the White House and coordinated with the California Department of Transportation.
This closure primarily affects the section of Interstate 5 adjacent to the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, one of the busiest military installations in the country. It disrupts the main transit route between the southern edge of Orange County and the northern beach cities of San Diego County. Motorists will be required to navigate around the expansive Camp Pendleton, which spans over 125,000 acres, by using Interstate 15 as the main alternative route. This detour could transform what is typically a 22-mile drive from Oceanside to San Clemente—normally taking about 23 minutes—into a lengthy 138-mile journey lasting approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes if drivers avoid the toll roads in Orange County. Notably, even on weekends, traffic congestion on Interstate 5 through the military base is common.
The closure is enforced from Basilone Drive, just south of San Clemente, to Harbor Drive, just north of Oceanside. In addition to road closures, rail services are also expected to face disruptions, including the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink services.
For those traveling from San Diego County to Los Angeles County, it is advisable to take Interstate 15 north instead of Interstate 5, passing through Temecula and Lake Elsinore, and then connecting to Route 91 west to reach Los Angeles. Conversely, travelers moving from Los Angeles County to San Diego County should consider taking Route 91 east through Corona, followed by Interstate 15 south. For those journeying from Orange County to San Diego County, the recommended route is to take Route 55 north to Route 91 east, then continue on Interstate 15 south.
In conclusion, be prepared for significant traffic disruptions on Interstate 5 this Saturday due to military operations. Utilizing alternative routes will be essential for motorists seeking to avoid extensive delays.
