Rock Slide Forces Ortega Highway Closure Near Lake Elsinore

LAKE ELSINORE, CA — A rock slide on the Ortega (74) Highway west of Lake Elsinore Wednesday prompted a full closure of the corridor at the location, snarling traffic while crews cleared the hazard.

The slide was reported at 11:50 a.m. on the eastbound side of the 74, near the Lookout Roadhouse, a few miles west of Lake Elsinore city limits, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Heavy rains had moved through earlier in the morning.

Officers reached the location shortly after noon and discovered rocks in both east- and westbound lanes, at which point Caltrans crews were requested to clear the obstructions.

As of 12:45 p.m., crews were carrying out the clearing operation. At least one side of the highway was open by then.

Mud and dirt was also being cleared near the Candy Store.