A sinkhole on Tuesday caused the collapse of a driveway at a Malibu mansion reportedly owned by actor Nicolas Cage. The sinkhole, which appeared on Monday, grew significantly, swallowing a large section of the property's driveway.
The incident has raised concerns about the stability of waterfront homes in the area, as many are built on pillars with their driveways and front sections constructed on soil, making them vulnerable. An unidentified homeowner in the gated community described the situation escalating rapidly after the sinkhole was initially noticed.
Malibu officials issued an emergency proclamation citing the sinkhole's severe impact on emergency access. The remaining portion of the roadway is too narrow for emergency vehicles, including fire engines, posing a substantial risk to public safety and response capabilities.
Hurricane Marie, which brought rain and high surf to Southern California during the Labor Day holiday weekend, is believed to have contributed to the sinkhole's formation. The sinkhole's size is estimated to be 30 by 30 feet, exposing vulnerabilities specific to the region's coastal properties.