Grapevine Fire Today, Kern County, California, October 2, 2026: Wildfire Near Tejon Pass Prompts I-5 Traffic Concerns
GRAPEVINE, California — Fire crews have been responding to the Grapevine Fire near Interstate 5 in Kern County after a wildfire broke out along the busy Grapevine corridor near Lebec Road.
According to CAL FIRE, the fire began at approximately 8:07 p.m. on September 30, 2026, along northbound Interstate 5 at Lebec Road. The Kern County Fire Department has jurisdiction over the incident.
Grapevine Fire Spreads Near Interstate 5
The fire was initially estimated at about 15 acres and was reported to have a moderate rate of spread, with power lines among the potential threats identified during the early response.
By later Wednesday evening, the fire had grown substantially. A report published October 1 said the Grapevine Fire had reached approximately 100 acres, while its forward spread had reportedly been stopped. At that stage, the fire remained listed at 0% containment in the latest CAL FIRE update available at the time.
Firefighters continued working to establish control lines and prevent additional spread through the dry vegetation surrounding the Grapevine and Tejon Pass area.
Interstate 5 Traffic and Road Closures
The fire has also affected traffic through the Grapevine.
CAL FIRE initially reported that northbound Interstate 5 was closed at Lebec Road. The closure was later extended toward Highway 138 as crews responded to the fire.
Because Interstate 5 is a major north-south route connecting Southern California with the Central Valley and other parts of the state, fire-related closures can create significant delays for travelers moving through the Tejon Pass.
Drivers approaching the area should check current California Highway Patrol and Caltrans information before traveling and follow any instructions issued by emergency personnel.
Cause of Grapevine Fire Under Investigation
The cause of the Grapevine Fire has not been established. CAL FIRE lists the cause as under investigation.
Officials have not publicly attributed the fire to a particular vehicle, utility line or other source.
Investigators are expected to continue examining the circumstances surrounding the ignition once firefighting operations allow.
What Travelers Should Know
Motorists traveling through the Grapevine should remain alert for changing traffic conditions, emergency vehicles and possible highway restrictions.
Drivers should avoid stopping near active firefighting operations and should follow directions from CHP officers and other emergency personnel.
Real-time conditions can change quickly during an active wildfire, particularly in mountainous terrain where wind and dry vegetation can influence fire behavior.
Latest Grapevine Fire Information
The confirmed incident information places the fire near northbound Interstate 5 at Lebec Road in Kern County, within the Grapevine/Tejon Pass corridor. The fire’s reported size increased from an initial 15 acres to approximately 100 acres, while the cause remained under investigation.
Residents and travelers should rely on CAL FIRE, Kern County Fire Department, CHP and Caltrans for the latest information about containment, road conditions and any additional safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Grapevine Fire?
The fire is near northbound Interstate 5 at Lebec Road in Kern County, in the Grapevine/Tejon Pass area.
How large is the Grapevine Fire?
It was initially reported at 15 acres and was later reported at approximately 100 acres.
Is Interstate 5 closed because of the fire?
Northbound I-5 was reported closed at Lebec Road, with the closure later extended toward Highway 138 during the initial response. Travelers should check current CHP and Caltrans information because highway conditions can change.
What caused the Grapevine Fire?
The cause remains under investigation.
Is the fire contained?
The CAL FIRE update cited here listed the fire at 0% containment at the time of that update. Conditions may have changed since then.