Geologists report progress on Portuguese Bend landslide in Rancho Palos Verdes
- Geologists reported a decrease in the landslide's movement from 13 inches to 8 inches per week due to dry conditions.
- The city has set up dewatering wells to manage water flow and is considering additional measures to stabilize the area.
- Residents express concern about the upcoming winter and the potential for worsening conditions, highlighting the need for effective funding and support.
In Rancho Palos Verdes, California, geologists provided an update on the ongoing landslide at Portuguese Bend during a City Council meeting. They reported a decrease in the landslide's movement from an average of 13 inches per week to 8 inches, attributed to the lack of rainfall over the past five months. Despite this deceleration, residents remain concerned about the potential impact of the upcoming winter, which is expected to bring more rain and could exacerbate the situation. The city has implemented measures to mitigate the landslide's effects, including the installation of six dewatering wells that pump out approximately 600 gallons of water per minute. City officials are also exploring additional strategies to manage water flow and prevent further damage, but funding remains a significant challenge. They anticipate that their request for financial assistance from FEMA may be denied due to the pre-existing nature of the landslide, which does not qualify for disaster recovery funds. Local resident Nikki Noushkam expressed feelings of abandonment and concern for the future, highlighting the emotional toll on those affected. The City Council is considering how to allocate $5 million from Los Angeles County to support impacted homeowners and fund stabilization efforts, but the path forward remains uncertain as they prepare for the winter months ahead.