Small Brush Fire Extinguished Off SR-85 At I-280 In Cupertino

CUPERTINO, CA — A small brush fire broke out Friday afternoon alongside northbound State Route 85 at the Interstate 280 interchange, the Santa Clara County Fire Department reported.

The county fire crew was dispatched to the 2:06 p.m. call and found an active fire that remained under an acre burning in the median area and right shoulder of northbound I-280 to the SR-85 interchange. The ramp was temporarily closed.

The blaze was stomped out in about 20 minutes.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, but it wasn't considered suspicious.

The fire burned dry grass along the roadway and sound wall. Crews remained on the scene to mop up, with the California Highway Patrol assisting until all roadways were reopened following the incident.

Santa Clara County Fire used the incident as a reminder to motorists that much of the grasses and vegetation in the county following the wet winter are now dry and susceptible to fire and to be aware of fire safety when traveling on the roads. Drivers and their passengers are advised to not dispose of cigarettes outside of vehicles, ensure tow chains are not dragging and avoid pulling vehicles over into dry grass.