NACHES, Wash. — U.S. Highway 12 will be closed tonight to allow for safe blasting of rock cliffs over the roadway.

The state Department of Transportation says the blasting is part of a project to replace bridges over the Tieton River.

The work will take place 10 miles west of the junction with State Route 410 between 7 this evening and 6 a.m. Friday.

Eastbound traffic will have to turn around or wait at the White Pass summit. Local and recreational traffic can continue to Rimrock Retreat.

Westbound traffic will have to wait at the Oak Creek Wildlife Area. Local and recreational traffic can continue to the Windy Point campground.

The DOT recommends Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 97 as alternate routes.

-- Mark Morey