Brush Fire Near 405/605 Freeway Interchange Causes Major Traffic Delays

SEAL BEACH, Calif. — A brush fire erupted near the 405/605 freeway interchange Thursday afternoon, causing significant traffic disruptions and prompting emergency responses from multiple agencies. The fire, reported around 1:20 p.m., quickly spread to nearby palm trees and brush, sending smoke visible as far as California State University, Long Beach.

Northbound lanes of the 405 Freeway were closed for over an hour, with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) warning that southbound lanes could also be impacted. Drivers were advised to avoid the area as crews worked to contain the blaze. The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) reported that dozens of units were assigned to the fire, and forward progress was stopped by approximately 2 p.m.

The incident occurred amid a Red Flag Warning issued by the National Weather Service, which remains in effect until 10 a.m. Friday for Orange County and other parts of Southern California. The warning highlights elevated fire danger due to strong gusty winds and very low relative humidity.

“We’re dealing with critical fire weather conditions, and this fire is a reminder of how quickly things can escalate,” said an OCFA spokesperson. The spokesperson could not immediately provide details on the fire’s size but confirmed that no structures were threatened.

As first responders battled the blaze, they also prepared for an incoming storm expected this weekend. The storm could trigger mudslides in areas with recent burn scars, adding another layer of complexity to emergency operations.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.