Significant Road Closure: I-5 Shuts Down Saturday as White House Deploys Artillery Due to Safety Concerns in Southern California

Governor Newsom Raises Concerns Over Live Fire Event

Governor Gavin Newsom spoke out after the federal government confirmed that a live fire demonstration would take place at Camp Pendleton. He expressed serious concerns about public safety, especially with artillery being fired over the busy I-5 freeway.

Newsom stressed, “This isn’t just wrong; it’s dangerous.” He criticized the administration for prioritizing spectacle over community safety and described the event as chaotic.

California is known for its respect for the military, especially as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Armed Forces. “We must remember the principles that shaped our country and honor the rights we all share,” he urged.

Initially, the White House planned for live artillery fire from October 17 to 18, raising alarms among state officials. In a recent statement, Newsom labeled this operation an “absurd show of force.”

On October 16, the U.S. Marine Corps clarified that routine exercises normally occur on training ranges, not over highways. However, the federal government ordered the cancellation of train services that run alongside I-5 on the same dates. This raised alarm among residents and travelers.

On October 17, organizers requested signage along I-5 to warn drivers about potential overhead fire, underscoring concerns about safety.

Data shows that I-5 is crucial for Southern California’s economy, supporting over 80,000 travelers daily and transferring $94 million in freight between San Diego and Orange Counties. Disruptions could lead to significant economic losses, with around 65,000 vehicles crossing county lines each day.

Traffic safety experts at the California Highway Patrol recommended closing a portion of I-5 during this event to protect drivers from unexpected explosions and distractions.

With this live fire demonstration, drivers can expect delays on I-5 and other routes in Southern California. For updated traffic information, travelers are urged to check QuickMap.

The situation illustrates a growing tension between military exercises and public safety, prompting discussions about responsible governance and community well-being. As more instances of military presence in civilian areas arise, public sentiment on social media reflects a mixture of support and concern, emphasizing the need for transparency and safety in such operations.

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