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Mojave National Preserve Still Reeling From Monsoonal Damage

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By NPT Staff - August 5th, 2022
Extensive damage on some roads will take time to assess and rehabilitate/NPS

Extensive damage on some roads in Mojave National Preserve will take time to assess and rehabilitate/NPS

All paved roads into Mojave National Preserve in California remain closed because of damage caused by flash floods on July 31 and August 1, the park announced Friday. Preserve roads sustained widespread water damage, including washouts and undercutting.

Preserve staff continues to assess the extent of the damage and make temporary repairs or sign damaged areas.

Currently, Kelbaker Road, Cima Road, Essex Road, Zzxyz Road, Lanfair Road, Black Canyon Road, and Morning Star Road are closed and will remain closed until debris can be cleared from the roadways and the full extent of the undercuts can be assessed. Because of these road closures, the Hole-in-the-Wall Visitor Center will also be closed until further notice.

Heavy summer rains, known as monsoons, caused extensive flooding throughout Mojave National Preserve. Flooding washed out two sections of Kelbaker Road entirely. Many other roads have extensive debris on the roadway or are partially undermined. Park maintenance crews are working to clear and stabilize roads as safely as possible.

The National Park Service has an informational webpage where the public can get the latest updates. There is also an interactive map with site specific images of the road damage and locations. The NPS continues to update that map as additional information comes in.

The park also reminds visitors to Drive Like A Tortoise. Even small rain events can deposit debris on desert roads, undermine pavement, or create steep shoulder drop-offs. Wildlife are also more present after rain, particularly desert tortoise.

“Driving Like A Tortoise allows everyone to see road hazards, help protect wildlife, and get to their destination safely,” said Superintendent Mike Gauthier. 

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