Traffic Collision Causes Temporary Closure on Highway 178 at Mouth of Kern River Canyon

Traffic Collision to Cause Temporary Closure on Highway 178 at Mouth of Kern River Canyon

A traffic collision with no reported injuries is expected to temporarily close Highway 178 near the mouth of the Kern River Canyon Sunday evening, according to California Highway Patrol incident logs.

The collision was reported at approximately 3:42 p.m. on Dec. 29 on State Route 178, about one mile east of the canyon mouth. CHP later confirmed the incident as a traffic collision with no injuries.

Dispatch records indicate at least one vehicle went over the side of the roadway, prompting a response from CHP, fire personnel, environmental health officials, and multiple towing services, including a precision tow truck.

At approximately 6:15 p.m., CHP logs stated the roadway would be fully closed for about 30 minutes to allow recovery operations to take place. After that initial closure, traffic is expected to reopen under one-way traffic control, with alternating directions, while towing and cleanup continue.

Fire personnel coordinated with the Office of Emergency Services during the incident.

No additional details regarding the cause of the collision were released in the available logs, and no injuries were reported.

Highway 178 through the Kern River Canyon is a primary travel corridor between the Kern River Valley and Bakersfield and is frequently impacted by collisions, rockfall, and weather-related hazards. Motorists traveling through the area during the evening hours should expect delays and watch for traffic control personnel.

Road conditions and updates are available through CHP and Caltrans traffic advisories.