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I-5 Reopens After Castaic Gas Transmission Line Rupture Prompts Shelter-in-Place

Investigators are probing a possible mudslide link to the 34-inch line failure.

Overview

  • The rupture was reported around 4:20 p.m. near Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place, with residents describing loud booms and strong gas odors reaching parts of the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys.
  • CHP issued a SigAlert and closed Interstate 5 in both directions, diverting northbound traffic to SR-126 and southbound to SR-138, before reopening the freeway a few hours later.
  • A shelter-in-place order from the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Office covered roughly 14,000 to 14,900 residents with instructions to stay indoors and shut windows, vents, and HVAC systems.
  • SoCalGas and fire crews isolated both ends of the broken transmission main by about 6 p.m., with hazmat teams monitoring residual seepage and officials reporting no injuries or immediate threat to Los Angeles.
  • The cause remains under investigation, with deputies citing possible storm-related ground movement as a factor; arson and explosives detectives responded, Cal OES coordinated, and the governor was briefed.