SH- 21 to reopen at 5 p.m. with reduced lanes; additional closures planned next week

A landslide has sent multiple large boulders and smaller rock fragments from a steep, exposed rock slope onto a two-lane mountain highway. The debris fully blocks the roadway near a guardrail. Pine trees line the slope and surrounding hillsides, with patches of snow visible under an overcast sky.

SH- 21 to reopen at 5 p.m. with reduced lanes; additional closures planned next week

State Highway 21 will reopen today at 5 p.m. with reduced lanes to allow traffic to pass through the landslide area safely through the weekend.

Following a Dec 9th highway closure due to a major landslide, ITD geotechnical experts advise that there is still a risk of falling rocks in the area. Because of this potential for continued instability, SH-21 will close again next week, beginning Monday at 8 a.m., for additional rock scaling. The highway must be closed during this work to protect the traveling public and allow crews to safely remove loose material from the slope.

Over the weekend, temporary barriers will be in place to help protect travelers from falling rocks until scaling can take place. A signal will also be in place to direct traffic through the reduced-lane area. Drivers are encouraged to use caution and stay engaged behind the wheel as conditions may change rapidly.

For the latest road conditions and closure updates, check the Idaho 511 app or visit 511.idaho.gov.