News Release

Temporary Road Closures Due to Flood Damage in Mojave National Preserve

Parts of Kelbaker Road have been completely destroyed.

NPS Photo/S. Andeskie

News Release Date: August 1, 2022

Contact: Sierra Willoughby, 760-221-5310

BARSTOW, Calif. – Mojave National Preserve has closed several damaged paved roads due to monsoonal rains on July 31, 2022. Kelbaker Road, Cima Road, Essex Road, Zzxyz Road, and Morning Star Road are currently closed and will remain closed until park staff can assess the extensiveness of the situation and the National Park Service can reopen them safely.  
 
Heavy summer rains - known as monsoons - caused extensive flooding throughout the preserve. Flooding washed out one section of Kelbaker Road entirely. Many other roads have extensive debris on the roadway or are partially undermined. More rain is expected today; this situation continues to evolve.   
 
For more current updates on closures and road status conditions in the park, please visit our road conditions page or follow Mojave National Preserve on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.