Editor's note: This updates with word that the road was to reopen Saturday night.
Surprisingly quick work had Yosemite National Park officials saying the El Portal Road into the park would reopen Saturday night after being closed for two days by a rockslide.
Yosemite rangers and road crews worked extended shifts to clear the rocks and debris from the road and make it safe for travel, a park release said.
"I would like to thank our road crews, park rangers, and resources management and science staff for their hard work over these past several days," said Don Neubacher, Yosemite superintendent. "Their dedication to safely and quickly re-open the El Portal Road exemplifies our commitment to serving the many visitors coming to Yosemite National Park."
Visitors were urged to drive with caution as crews and equipment might be present along the roadway. Additionally, hazards such as rocks and other debris may be present, the park release added.
The rockfall, reported shortly before dawn Thursday, triggered several large boulders and debris to block access to Yosemite Valley via the road, officially Highway 140. Park staff and U.S. Geological Survey staff assessed the site Friday and deemed it safe for park personnel to begin removing the rocks and debris.
There are currently chain restrictions in place on many roads within Yosemite. All drivers, including those with four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles, must carry chains when entering a designated chain control area.
For the most current road conditions, please call 209-372-0200. Press option “1” and then “1” again to go directly to the road conditions report.
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