Henderson Fire Swells to Over 1,100 Acres on Camp Pendleton, Prompting Evacuations and I‑5 Closure
A fast‑moving wildfire on Camp Pendleton grew from 75 to more than 1,100 acres in two hours, forcing evacuations and closing a stretch of I‑5.
Key points
- The Henderson Fire started near Henderson and Brown Streets on Oct. 15, 2026.
- It expanded from 75 acres to over 1,100 acres within about two hours.
- Evacuations were ordered for Brown and Henderson Streets and a warning for the 41 Area.
- I‑5 was closed between Harbor Drive and Basilone Road; Las Pulgas Road was also closed.
- I‑5 reopened at 5:45 p.m., but the reopening may be temporary.
A fast‑moving wildfire dubbed the Henderson Fire ignited shortly before 2 p.m. on Oct. 15, 2026, near Henderson Street and Brown Street in the 43 Area of the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, San Diego County.
Initial estimates put the blaze at approximately 75 acres, but later reports indicated it expanded to hundreds of acres, with one estimate exceeding 1,100 acres within about two hours.
Evacuations were ordered for the area of Brown and Henderson streets, and an evacuation warning was issued for the base’s 41 Area.
Interstate 5 was fully closed between Harbor Drive and Basilone Road as emergency crews responded, and Las Pulgas Road was closed between Brown Street and Stuart Mesa Road. The Las Pulgas Gate allowed only emergency vehicles, and Stuart Mesa Road was closed in both directions near Fire Base Gloria.
At 5:45 p.m. the I‑5 freeway began reopening in both directions, though the reopening was noted as potentially temporary.
Your questions, answered
Where did the Henderson Fire start on Camp Pendleton?
It ignited near Henderson Street and Brown Street in the 43 Area of the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
What roads were closed because of the fire?
I‑5 was closed between Harbor Drive and Basilone Road, and Las Pulgas Road was closed between Brown Street and Stuart Mesa Road.
Quick poll
Should evacuation orders be issued immediately when a wildfire expands rapidly?
0 votes
How does this story make you feel?
Topics
Up next · ScienceJapan rattled by series of earthquakes
