Overview
- Early Tuesday crews responding to a reported gas leak found a sinkhole at the Sea Level Drive driveway that officials say formed after high surf and coastal erosion; the home was unoccupied and no injuries were reported.
- The City of Malibu estimated the hole at roughly 25 to 30 feet deep and about 30 by 60 feet wide and then issued a local emergency and evacuation orders for about 31 properties.
- Southern California Gas Company shut off a damaged gas line and crews worked to stop the leak while water service was also at risk and may be restricted as conditions are evaluated.
- Homeowners association contractors and city crews began pouring concrete and shoring the failed seawall as a temporary measure, but formal structural assessments of the residence and a long‑term stabilization plan are still pending.
- Officials warned that continued high tides, storms and a strong El Niño outlook could worsen erosion, prolong repairs and extend displacement for residents while restoration and permit work proceed.