Car Fire Causes Delays at The Merge

A vehicle fire along the southbound Interstate 5 slowed traffic at The Merge Wednesday.

Thick, black smoke could be seen by drivers sitting in gridlock around 8 a.m.

Firefighters shut down the bypass lane because the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames according to the CHP.

Minutes later, the fire was under control according to San Diego Fire Rescue.

Even so, the effect of the slowing at the start of the morning commute may be felt by those heading south onto I-5 or I-805 near Del Mar.

Thick, black smoke could be seen by drivers sitting in gridlock around 8 a.m.