Update May 19, 2026 7 AM - Highway 178 remained hard closed as River Fire grew to 2,535 acres

BAKERSFIELD — Highway 178 through Kern Canyon remained under a hard closure Tuesday morning after the River Fire grew to 2,535 acres with 15% containment, according to CAL FIRE.

The fire, burning near the 19600 block of Kern Canyon Road west of the Kern River Valley, triggered a major firefighting response Monday as crews worked in steep, rugged terrain to slow the fire’s spread.

CHP logs showed the closure remained in effect on both sides of the canyon after fire officials requested the hard closure Monday afternoon. The shutdown continued overnight, cutting off the direct route between the Kern River Valley and Bakersfield.

Air resources assigned to the fire were released overnight, with the exception of one night-flying helicopter, according to radio traffic reports.

For Kern River Valley residents needing to travel west, the continued closure meant detours or delayed travel until fire officials determined the roadway could safely reopen.

CHP logs also reflected at least one complaint from a caller reporting limited signage warning approaching motorists about the canyon closure.

Firefighters were expected to continue building containment lines and monitoring fire behavior throughout the day as conditions evolved.

Because wildfire conditions can shift quickly, readers are encouraged to follow the Kern Valley Sun’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.