Tree Fire Near Hercules Causes Traffic Jam On I-80

HERCULES (CBS SF) -- California Highway Patrol (CHP) warned commuters Thursday afternoon that a tree fire on westbound I-80 near Hercules created traffic delays.

CHP first reported the severe traffic alert around 2:42 p.m., noting that the tree fire was west of Willow Ave in Hercules, blocking the right and center lanes of westbound I-80.

"Motorists are advised to expect delays and to use alternate routes to avoid the area," CHP noted in their alert. "There is no estimated time to reopen the roadway."

UPDATE: At 3:22, Caltrans reported that the middle lane of westbound I-80 had opened up.

This story will be updated.

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• California Highway Patrol