Carmaggedon in Pasadena Ahead of UCLA Football in the Rose Bowl Friday

A trash truck fire on the westbound I-210 at North Lake Avenue caused significant traffic disruptions, required an emergency response and prompted a SIG alert in Pasadena Friday shortly after 12 noon.

The incident, which involved a trash truck fully engulfed in flames, led to the closure of all lanes. Authorities said the SIG alert is likely to be n effect until about 2 pm’

Traffic is already building with UCLA fans coming to the Rose Bowl for the Bruins football game tonight. The game starts at 6:00 p.m. but parking lots opened at 12:00 noon for tailgating.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Pasadena Fire Department were dispatched to the scene around 12:04 PM. The fire department blocked the Hill on-ramp while efforts were made to control the blaze. A heavy-duty tow truck from Pepe’s Tow Service was called to assist, with an estimated arrival time 1 to 1:30 p.m.

Due to the hazardous situation, all traffic was diverted off the freeway at the Hill offramp, and Pasadena police were requested for traffic control at nearby intersections.

The incident caused a severe backlog, affecting drivers in Pasadena and the surrounding areas.

Best advice: use surface streets and stay well clear of the freeway.