By Spencer Shepard
Kern River Valley — State Route 178 is currently closed in both directions at the mouth of the canyon as crews perform emergency rock-fall mitigation, according to California Highway Patrol reports.
The closure was approved at approximately 7:44 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17. CHP and Caltrans crews are conducting rock runs from both ends of the canyon to ensure the roadway is safe for travel. Estimated reopening times vary — crews report roughly 10 minutes from the lower end of the canyon and about 20 minutes from the top, depending on conditions.
Units were dispatched to the scene just before 8 p.m. and remain actively working in the area.
Drivers are advised to avoid the area and expect delays until crews complete safety checks and clear hazards from the roadway.
The Kern Valley Sun will provide updates as more information becomes available.
