Landslides threaten homes in Rancho Palos Verdes, California

In Rancho Palos Verdes, California, over 200 homes are facing power outages due to significant ground movement threatening utility lines. Southern California Edison has already cut power to 140 homes in the Portuguese Bend community, with an additional 105 homes expected to lose power soon. The situation is dire, as the shifting ground has accelerated dramatically, with some areas moving up to 10 inches per week, raising concerns about safety and potential fires. A small fire occurred last week when a utility line fell due to the land movement, highlighting the dangers in the area. Local officials, including city council members, have expressed their alarm at the unprecedented nature of the situation, noting that the land has been shifting for decades but has worsened recently. The city has been under a local state of emergency since October 2023, and natural gas service was shut off in the Portuguese Bend neighborhood earlier this year. Law enforcement is increasing patrols and using drones to prevent looting as residents are urged to heed evacuation warnings. Los Angeles County has allocated an additional $5 million to address the crisis, and officials are advocating for a state of emergency declaration from Governor Gavin Newsom. The ongoing land movement poses a significant risk to the community, and local leaders are calling for more support from state and federal authorities to manage the disaster effectively. As the situation develops, residents are left in uncertainty, facing the potential loss of their homes and safety. The community's resilience is being tested as they navigate the challenges posed by the shifting landscape and the response from utility companies and government agencies.