Mudslide Wreaks Havoc on PCH and Duke’s Parking Lot in Malibu
Storm Brings Devastating Consequences to Fire-Scarred Community
The image of a disaster recovery team trailer surrounded by mud and debris outside Duke’s in Malibu illustrates what kind of year it has been for the scenic stretch of the Los Angeles County coast. The green trailer, positioned in front of the landmark restaurant off Pacific Coast Highway, has been there for a few weeks of cleanup and restoration after the devastating Palisades Fire. The restaurant temporarily closed, but was not significantly damaged by the wildfire that started January 7 in a fearsome Santa Ana windstorm, destroying thousands of buildings in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu area.
Mudslide Brings New Challenges to Already-Recovering Community
On Thursday, the coastal community was hard hit by the strongest storm of the season in Southern California. Hours of rainfall, which was heavy at times, triggered a mudslide that sent mud, water, and debris down hillsides, onto PCH and into Duke’s parking lot.
Mud-Covered Parking Lot and Entrance
The restaurant parking lot and entrance were covered by mud Friday morning as storm cleanup began alongside wildfire recovery in coastal communities. The nearby intersection at PCH and Las Flores Canyon Road also was under a layer of mud. Crews were using heavy machinery to clear the road.
Pacific Coast Highway Remains Closed
Parts of PCH remain closed due to the threat of rock and mudslides. Pacific Coast Highway will remain closed to the public until further notice, accessible only for emergency responders, between Chautauqua Boulevard in Pacific Palisades and Carbon Beach Terrace in Malibu, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Malibu/Lost Hills Station.
Heroic Rescue
On Thursday during the height of the rainfall, a SUV with a LAFD member inside was swept by a powerful slide down an embankment and into the ocean. The lone occupant escaped and was not seriously injured.
Evacuation Warnings and Orders in Effect
Evacuation warnings and orders were in effect for high-risk areas, including burn areas, Thursday along the coast during a day of severe weather.
Conclusion
The recent storm has brought new challenges to the already-recovering community of Malibu, with a mudslide causing widespread damage and disruptions. As the community continues to recover from the devastating Palisades Fire, residents and authorities are working tirelessly to clear the roads and restore normalcy to the area.
FAQs
- What caused the mudslide?
- Heavy rainfall triggered by a strong storm, which caused mud and debris to flow down hillsides and onto PCH.
- Are there any road closures in place?
- Yes, parts of PCH are closed due to the threat of rock and mudslides, with access restricted to emergency responders only.
- Are there any evacuation warnings or orders in place?
- Yes, evacuation warnings and orders were in effect for high-risk areas, including burn areas, during the severe weather event.
