PACIFICA / SAN MATEO COUNTY — October 26, 2026. Caltrans has announced an annual emergency-response exercise requiring the full overnight closure of both Tom Lantos (Devil’s Slide) Tunnels on Highway 1. Both northbound and southbound lanes are scheduled to close from 8 p.m. Thursday, November 5, until 4 a.m. Friday, November 6.

The closure is for a planned emergency drill—not a report of a tunnel fire or traffic accident. Caltrans says first responders will test fire suppression, communication equipment and coordinated response procedures. Participating agencies include CHP, local police and fire services, CAL FIRE and San Mateo County public-safety partners.

Detours north and south

Drivers heading south from Pacifica are directed via Sharp Park Road, Skyline Boulevard, southbound I-280 and westbound SR-92 toward Half Moon Bay. Northbound drivers from Half Moon Bay should take eastbound SR-92, northbound I-280, Skyline Boulevard and Sharp Park Road back toward SR-1. These are substantial reroutes for trips normally using the direct coastal tunnel connection.

Caltrans may revise timing as conditions change. Always follow signs and QuickMap. Original report: Caltrans District 4, October 21. Coverage: Pacifica News.

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