Additional Coverage:
California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued a state of emergency for Rancho Palos Verdes in Southern California due to a significant landslide threatening the area. The landslide has led to the disconnection of power and gas for 245 homes as utility infrastructure was compromised. This declaration came after local officials held a press briefing, urging immediate state intervention.
In a statement, Newsom described Rancho Palos Verdes as being situated atop four of the five sub-slides that make up the Greater Portuguese Landslide Complex. He noted that the landslide activity has worsened considerably due to the intense storms of 2023 and 2024.
According to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, ongoing support has been provided to manage the landslide, including technical assistance and federal aid for groundwater management projects. A recent meeting with residents and utility representatives underscored the uncertain timeline for power restoration due to ongoing ground instability.
Residents in the expanding landslide area were encouraged to evacuate following the shutdown of utilities. During a community meeting, a Southern California Edison executive expressed uncertainty about the future progression of the landslide.
Among the affected, resident Sallie Reeves reported severe damage to her Rancho Palos Verdes home, with rapid shifts in the structure prompting her and her disabled husband to relocate within their house multiple times for safety. County official Janice Hahn emphasized the severe impact and necessity for substantial state and federal assistance. Despite the danger, some residents, like Reeves, have chosen to stay in their homes due to personal care challenges for family members.
Hahn has committed $5 million from the county for disaster response, and evacuation advisories remain in place for parts of the city. The situation has revealed not only the physical but also the emotional toll as residents grapple with ongoing uncertainty and displacement.