Traffic Alert: Highway Shutdown for Military Artillery Show

Mon Oct 20 2025 22:11:20 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A planned military display involving live artillery fire over a major highway in Southern California raises safety concerns, prompting a temporary closure.

In Southern California, a military event featuring live artillery fire has sparked controversy and safety alarms, prompting the closure of a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 5. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed concern over public safety, while military officials assured there are no risks involved in the exercise. The closure could severely impact travelers between San Diego and Los Angeles, with the event aiming to showcase Marine Corps skills.

A plan to fire live artillery shells over a major Southern California highway has caused significant backlash from Governor Gavin Newsom, who has closed a 17-mile portion of Interstate 5 for safety reasons. Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous, he stated.

Despite these concerns, Vice President JD Vance and military officials from Camp Pendleton argue that the demonstration is safe and traffic disruptions are unnecessary. The showcase is part of the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th anniversary celebrations, which include demonstrations of amphibious vehicles and aircraft.

Transportation officials acknowledged the necessity of closing the freeway amidst safety protocols, with complaints about potential risks to travelers if the event were to occur without precautions. The highway closure is expected to cause delays of up to two hours for daily commuters in the busy corridor.