A vegetation fire erupted along northbound Interstate 15 in the Cajon Pass on Friday afternoon, August 28, 2026, prompting a second-alarm firefighting response and creating significant traffic disruptions through one of Southern California’s busiest mountain corridors.
The fire, identified as the Greenwood Fire, was reported near the Kenwood Avenue area in Devore shortly after 1:50 p.m. Initial reports placed the blaze along the right shoulder of northbound I-15, approximately two miles beyond the Kenwood Avenue exit.
San Bernardino County firefighters responded to the scene as early estimates indicated that several acres of vegetation were burning. The dry vegetation and steep terrain in the Cajon Pass raised concerns that the fire could spread quickly, prompting authorities to bring additional resources to the incident.
A second alarm was requested as firefighters worked to contain the flames. Additional firefighting resources, including aircraft, were brought into the response as crews attacked the fire from both the ground and air and worked to establish containment lines.
Early reports described moderate fire behavior, although firefighters remained concerned that changing conditions could allow the blaze to expand. The combination of dry vegetation, mountainous terrain and heavy traffic made the incident particularly challenging for emergency crews.
The fire also caused immediate problems for motorists traveling through the Cajon Pass. Two northbound lanes of I-15 were closed while firefighters and other emergency personnel operated along the freeway.
The closures resulted in traffic backing up for miles, leaving motorists facing substantial delays. Drivers traveling through the area were urged to slow down, remain alert for emergency vehicles and prepare for changing traffic conditions.
Smoke from the fire also created potentially reduced visibility in the area. Motorists were advised to follow instructions from the California Highway Patrol and transportation officials and avoid stopping unnecessarily near the fire or emergency response area.
The cause of the Greenwood Fire had not been publicly established at the time of the latest reports. Investigators are expected to examine the area once firefighting operations have progressed sufficiently to allow safe access.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the fire and surrounding conditions as crews work toward containment. The situation could change rapidly depending on weather, wind and fire behavior.
Residents and travelers near the Cajon Pass are encouraged to monitor official emergency notifications for updates, including any evacuation warnings or other safety instructions that could be issued if the fire threatens nearby communities.
For motorists, officials are urging patience and caution while emergency crews remain on the freeway. The I-15 Cajon Pass is a critical transportation route between Southern California’s inland communities and the high desert, meaning even temporary lane closures can produce significant delays.
As firefighters continue their efforts against the Greenwood Fire, authorities are working to protect nearby areas, maintain public safety and restore normal traffic conditions along Interstate 15.
