Oceanside, CA – A four-hour closure of Interstate 5 through northern San Diego County is causing frustration across Southern California today as artillery demonstrations at Camp Pendleton halt traffic between Harbor Drive and Basilone Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol, both directions of I-5 are fully closed from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a military training and demonstration event on the Marine base. The shutdown impacts thousands of weekend travelers along one of the busiest freeway routes between Los Angeles and San Diego.
The Marine Corps described the event as part of a 250th-anniversary celebration, including an “amphibious capabilities demonstration” involving artillery practice along the coast. Officials said the activities comply with established safety procedures.
Still, many residents and commuters voiced anger online over the sudden closure, with some calling it unnecessary and poorly timed. State officials confirmed they were notified late Friday that closures would proceed after earlier confusion over whether the freeway would remain open.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office previously raised concerns about coordination between state and federal agencies, citing the lack of public notice ahead of the weekend.
CHP urged drivers to check quickmap.dot.ca.gov for real-time updates and to plan alternate routes through Oceanside and northern San Diego County.
Traffic is expected to remain heavy into the late afternoon as the interstate reopens.
