Malibu Restaurant Threatened by Coastal Erosion
Powerful waves have eaten away at the coastline near the Sunset Restaurant, prompting officials to reinforce the road and water main.
A popular restaurant in Malibu, California, is under threat from coastal erosion as powerful waves have significantly worn away the road surrounding it. Officials warned Monday that the Sunset Restaurant, a well-known establishment, is vulnerable to collapse due to the receding coastline near Zuma Beach.
The highway at Westward Beach has been closed as a result of the erosion, which has also exposed a water main in the area, leading to the shutoff of water service. Crews are working to stabilize the road by piling large boulders to prevent further damage and collapse.
"A contractor for LA County is using equipment and materials already on site to help prevent further erosion and damage. City maintenance crews are assisting with traffic control," city officials stated Monday night. "The City will continue assessing conditions throughout the night to determine when the road can safely reopen."
Photographs depict the precarious state of the road, which now hangs over the edge of the coast with diminished support from the eroded land beneath it. The Sunset Restaurant, which has temporarily closed, is renowned for its beachfront location and scenic ocean views.
Recent weeks have seen Malibu experience both intense wave activity and wildfires. A fire near Zuma Beach was quickly contained by officials. The area has been battered by strong swells from Tropical Storm Rachel, and an approaching storm is expected to bring more high waves and potential flooding.
The California Post has reached out to The Sunset Restaurant for comment.