UPDATE: CalTrans tweeted shortly before 11 a.m. Thursday that I-15 is now completely open though the Cajon Pass.
I-15 northbound and southbound through #CajonPass are now open #BlueCutFire #Caltrans8 pic.twitter.com/VacCb0IjAL
— Caltrans District 8 (@Caltrans8) August 18, 2016
ORIGINAL STORY
Getting to and from Southern California has become a challenge for many due to the Blue Cut fire that is burning at rapid speed.
Interstate 15 was closed in both directions for more than a day after the fire broke out. However, late Wednesday night, I-15 northbound through the Cajon Pass reopened, according to California Highway Patrol.
Southbound I-15 remains closed as crews work on guardrail repairs.
Work continues on SB 15 to make guardrail repairs to ensure safety to the traveling public before opening
— Caltrans District 8 (@Caltrans8) August 18, 2016
With Interstate 15 still closed southbound at Main Street in Hesperia, the best option to getting to SoCal is through Crestline. The route is backed up and authorities still recommend staying away from that route Wednesday.
Highway 2 is closed from the Los Angeles County line to Highway 138, while Highway 138 is closed from the Los Angeles County line to Highway 173.
For those trying to get to Los Angeles from Las Vegas, a recommended route is taking southbound I-15 to westbound Highway 58, then take Highway 14 southbound to southbound I-5.
Another detour is for motorists to take Highway 18 into Lucerne Valley through Big Bear to Highway 330. This will eventually lead to Highway 210 and Interstate 10.
On Tuesday, the fire created traffic problems for truckers and other travelers going through the Cajon Pass but also people trying to make their way to and from Las Vegas along I-15.
"I pulled over at about 1 o'clock and I said you know what there is no way I am going to get down the hill," said truck driver Chris Fleming.
For some drivers going from Valencia, Calif., to Las Vegas, it took them 10 hours to get to Primm when it would have usually taken between 4 to 5 hours. A family also ran out of gas.
Some took detours but there was additional traffic on smaller highways, along with longer drive times.
For more travel information, or to see alternate routes, click here.
