15 Freeway closed for up to 2 days after bridge construction fire

The 15 Freeway in Hesperia was shut down for up to two days following a huge fire at an overpass under construction on Monday afternoon, officials say. (David Pardo / Associated Press / )

The 15 Freeway in the Cajon Pass will be closed in both directions for one to two days because of a huge blaze that broke out at a bridge construction site, state transportation officials said Monday evening.

The fire at the Ranchero Road overpass in Hesperia created a traffic nightmare along the heavily used freeway that connects Southern California with Las Vegas.

Traffic in both directions was snarled for miles as firefighters battled the blaze that was burning at the wood-and-rebar construction site, officials said.

Officials said the flames engulfed the site and were stoked by strong winds.

'It's not looking good,' Caltrans spokeswoman Terri Kasinga said Monday afternoon.

The blaze was sparked by workers cutting reinforced steel bars with torches, the San Bernardino County Fire Department said.

Motorists were advised to use alternative routes, including California highways 138 and 18.

'If you do know alternate routes, you should take those routes,' said Fire Department spokeswoman Tracey Martinez.

We've upgraded our reader commenting system. Learn more about the new features.

Los Angeles Times welcomes civil dialogue about our stories; you must register with the site to participate. We filter comments for language and adherence to our Terms of Service, but not for factual accuracy. By commenting, you agree to these legal terms. Please flag inappropriate comments.

Having technical problems? Check here for guidance.