Big Rig Fire Spreads to Vegetation Near Altamont Pass, Causing Temporary Freeway Closure

A big rig caught fire on the shoulder of I-580 in Livermore early Friday morning, leading to a complete closure of westbound lanes. The fire began around 4:45 am and quickly spread to adjacent vegetation, prompting the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to issue traffic alerts. Drivers were directed off the freeway onto Altamont Pass Road and Corral Hollow Road as firefighters worked to contain the blaze. The fire, fueled by high winds, expanded to three acres but was contained by 7 am. CHP announced that one lane reopened by 10 am, offering some relief to stranded motorists.

The Alameda County Fire Department, in coordination with Cal Fire, responded to the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, emphasizing ongoing concerns about fire hazards in the area. Such incidents can disrupt traffic and pose risks to surrounding communities.