A significant coastal erosion event triggered by high tides and surf has led to the collapse of driveways and a sinkhole on Sea Level Drive in Malibu, California, prompting the City of Malibu to declare a local emergency Tuesday evening. The incident threatens at least five beachfront homes, including one owned by actor Nicolas Cage.
The crisis unfolded Monday morning near Point Lechuza, where pounding surf washed away the foundation of the private road serving the neighborhood. This resulted in the collapse of driveways and the formation of a roughly 30-by-30-foot hole, cutting off access to the properties. Five homes were red-tagged by sheriff's deputies, prohibiting entry due to safety concerns.
Crews from the City of Malibu and third-party contractors have deployed at least 15 concrete trucks to the site. They are working to plug a failed seawall and fill the sinkhole in an effort to stabilize the area before the evening high tide. The road is private, requiring trucks to enter one at a time to deposit concrete.
The damage is near Cage's four-level, 3,938-square-foot residence, which he purchased in 2024 for $10.5 million. The extreme surf, attributed to the remnants of Hurricane Marie, also caused a gas leak at the back of Cage's property. SoCal Gas officials confirmed damage to a natural gas line, which has since been safely stopped, but residents may notice a gas odor as repairs continue.
Officials are continuing to monitor the situation, with some crews potentially remaining on-site overnight. The concrete pour is considered a temporary measure against the ongoing force of the ocean. The storm's remnants brought heavy rain, thunder, lightning, and coastal flooding to the region.