Video Shows Massive Explosion Clearing Large Boulders on a Roadway Near Auburn

In an operation resembling a Hollywood blockbuster, work crews in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills resorted to explosives to remove a formidable rockslide that had engulfed Old Forest Hill Road near Auburn.

Placer County shared a dramatic video on Facebook, showcasing the explosive effort to dismantle the colossal boulders, some as large as a minivan, that had fallen across the roadway on January 18:

The rockslide, a result of recent heavy rains, occurred in the Auburn State Recreation Area, approximately 30 miles northeast of Sacramento. This area, known for its popularity among off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and dirt bike riders, faced significant disruption due to the obstruction. The successful explosion broke down the massive rocks into smaller, more manageable fragments to remove from the roadway.

The Placer County Roads Division announced an ongoing cleanup operation, expected to continue into this week. The team is also assessing additional road repairs essential for the safe reopening of the road. In the meantime, local authorities advise motorists to avoid the area and use Foresthill Road for their commutes.

The clearance and repair work is considered a “huge” job, with the team working diligently to remove the debris and patch the road. As a result of the slide and ongoing operations, Mammoth Bar remains closed due to access restrictions, with California State Parks indicating continued closure on Monday. However, there is optimism for reopening the road by midday Tuesday, pending a thorough assessment of the road’s condition and necessary repairs.