I-680 Brush Fires: Evacuations, Severe Traffic Alert Issued

PLEASANTON, CA — Forward progress on a series of small brush fires was stopped early Friday evening after officials issued evacuations and shut down the right lane on northbound Interstate Highway 680 south of Bernal Avenue Friday afternoon, just in time for rush hour.

Residents of Inspiration Terrace, Happy Valley Road, Sanctuary Lane and Sleepy Head Lane were asked to evacuate by Pleasanton police. Police said they will notify the public when residents of those areas can safely return.

Cal Fire announced around 5:20 p.m. that forward progress on the fires was stopped. The fire began around 4 p.m. Alameda County Fire was battling the blaze, according to smartphone app PulsePoint.

The California Highway Patrol issued a severe traffic alert and advised drivers to expect delays and avoid the area, if possible.

It's unclear when the road will reopen.