Photo Submitted by Caltrans Rte. 190 Death Valley Aug 2023

Caltrans Working to Reopen State Route 190

State Route 136 is Closed Due to Heavy Flooding

INYO COUNTY — Caltrans is working toward reopening State Route 190 after flood waters generated by Tropical Storm Hilary damaged several locations. The most significant damage is located at Lower and Upper Centennial Wash. Between Olancha and the western entrance to Death Valley National Park, both locations are missing wide swaths of pavement that were crumbled or washed away by powerful flash flooding. The storm also washed away a section of State Route 136 southeast of Keeler near the junction of State Route 190.

An emergency work order was issued to repair both State Route 190 and State Route 136. Fisher Sand & Gravel will complete the first phase of repairs, focusing on both highways between Olancha and Panamint Springs in Death Valley National Park. The second phase of repairs will focus on State Route 190 east of Panamint Springs.

“State Routes 190 and 136 experienced the full effect of Tropical Storm Hilary,” said Caltrans District 9 Director Ryan Dermody. “As our maintenance teams continue to remove debris, they are finding several damaged sections of the highway with complete shoulder loss, undercutting of the roadway, displaced culverts, and asphalt that has buckled and broken. Repairs have already started and we will be constructing temporary roads for residents needing to reach vital services in Lone Pine and elsewhere along U.S. 395.”

State Route 190 will reopen once repairs are complete. On State Route 136, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is releasing excess water that is flooding a one-mile stretch of the highway just west of Dolomite Loop. It’s expected to impact the highway for the next month. Flood waters from the river will fluctuate throughout the day. The consistent flow of water could undercut the highway or cause other issues, and Caltrans must inspect the roadbed and pavement before reopening it.

Travelers looking to enter Death Valley National Park should contact park officials or visit nps.gov/deva to see what facilities are available following the storm. It is possible many park roads have been washed out, similar to last year when the park saw record rainfall.

For the latest information on road closures, please visit the Caltrans QuickMap site at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or download the app to your smartphone. You can also call the Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).