Storm warning closes key route to Yosemite
# **Road to Yosemite Closed: Landslide Risk Forces Emergency Shutdown**
> **A critical route into one of America’s most visited national parks is now impassable—here’s what travelers need to know.**
A 10-mile stretch of **State Route 140** in **Mariposa County**, the gateway to **Yosemite National Park**, has been **shut down indefinitely** after relentless rain and landslide warnings turned the road into a danger zone. The closure, effective **7 p.m. on Monday**, blocks the direct route from **Midpines to El Portal**, cutting off a vital artery for park-bound traffic.
### **A History of Hazard**
This treacherous stretch is infamous among locals and park visitors alike. Nestled within a **steep canyon near the Merced River**, the terrain is a powder keg for rockslides—especially after heavy storms. Just **last week**, a massive debris flow—equivalent to **100 dump trucks worth of rock**—swallowed both lanes near **Briceburg**, leaving drivers stranded and motorists in a state of alarm.
But this isn’t the first time the road has buckled under pressure. Back in March 2023, another catastrophic slide forced week-long closures, disrupting commutes for residents and crippling businesses that rely on park tourism. The economic ripple effect was severe, with shops, lodgings, and service providers bearing the brunt of lost revenue.
What’s Next? A Race Against Time
State transportation officials have ground crews on standby, poised to assess the damage once the storm system passes. While they work to stabilize the slopes, travelers must navigate alternate routes—or delay their plans altogether.
Stay Informed:
- Real-time road conditions: Check a map app for live updates.
- Radio alerts: Tune in to 530 AM, 1610 AM, or 1670 AM for broadcast warnings.
- Voice updates: Call 1-800-427-ROAD (7623) for automated advisories.
For now, the closure stands as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable power—and the challenges of keeping critical infrastructure safe in the face of relentless weather.
