CAMP PENDLETON — Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton is recovering from the 3,260-acre Henderson Fire, which has reached 95% containment following days of intense suppression efforts aided by favorable weather.
The fire broke out shortly after 2:30 p.m. Thursday near Basilone and Las Pulgas roads, destroying one building but sparing further structural losses thanks to a multiagency response, base officials said.
At its peak, the effort involved 654 personnel, 69 engines, two water tenders, six bulldozers and multiple aircraft from the Camp Pendleton Fire Department, Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service.
Crews have continued working around the clock to extinguish remaining hot spots, secure the perimeter and mop up following days of intense suppression efforts.
Favorable weather changes, including higher relative humidity and a shift to onshore winds, have aided containment progress after the fire initially prompted evacuations and temporary closures of Interstate 5, Cal Fire said.
Las Pulgas Gate and Stuart Mesa Road have reopened, though Las Pulgas Road remains restricted to emergency vehicles and essential personnel.
The Public Works Department has restored power to the 31 and 41 areas, while the 43 area remains without power pending infrastructure assessments, base officials said.
Interstate 5 and internal routes have reopened following temporary closures managed by the California Highway Patrol and the Provost Marshal’s Office.
No injuries were reported, and investigators are still determining the cause. Marine Corps Installations West reported no active threats to personnel or facilities as recovery continues.
