A landslide in Dana Point, Calif., on Jan. 2 briefly closed a portion of the Pacific Coast Highway for traffic traveling in both directions near Palisades Drive and Camino Capistrano until it was cleared Wednesday evening, according to city officials.
The slope where the landslide occurred is a naturally eroding bluff along the coastline, which is made up of dirt, rocks, and other debris.
The landslide did not harm anyone or hit any cars, Dana Point’s Director of Public Works Matt Sinacori told The Epoch Times.
Public Works staff cleaned up 450 cubic yards of dirt which had fallen on the road past the protective k-rail—a concrete barrier that prevents sliding dirt or falling debris from obstructing roadways.
The department partnered with contractors to transport the dirt out of the area and the city’s police and fire departments to quickly clear the situation.
Sinacori said with the storms forecasted this week, he doesn’t expect another landslide to cause more issues for the Coast Highway.
“We’re hoping for the best as we get more rain here,” Sinacori said.
On Wednesday evening, the city announced on social media a weather advisory through Friday, warning there could be flooding, high surf, and strong winds.
Officials advise staying indoors when possible and using caution when driving, allowing extra time to safely reach a destination.
Orange County is expected to receive up to six inches of rain Wednesday through Friday, according to the National Weather Service. The service has issued a county-wide flood watch and wind advisory through Thursday evening.
Orange County Fire Authority officials say it is possible some landslides and flooding will occur around the county and are prepared to handle any of those incidents.
