Big rig fire on Altamont Pass spreads to vegetation, shuts down lanes

(KRON) — A big rig fire on the Altamont Pass east of Livermore early Friday morning spread to the nearby hillside, prompting the closure of westbound Interstate 580, according to the California Highway Patrol. Two lanes of the roadway were reopened at 9:44 a.m.

The 18-wheeler was hauling almonds when it caught fire around 4:30 a.m. on westbound I-580 east of Flynn Road, according to the CHP incident log. The fire engulfed the big rig before high winds in the area spread the flames to the nearby vegetation.

The driver was not injured in the incident.

All lanes of westbound I-580 were shut down just before 6 a.m. as the Alameda County Fire Department and Cal Fire responded to the fires. Traffic was backed up on WB 580 and WB I-205 through the Tracy area, CHP said. Two lanes were later reopened at 9:44 a.m.

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes, such as Corral Hollow Road, to avoid the area and to expect delays.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.