Malibu, California, has ordered the evacuation of over 30 properties following the emergence of a large sinkhole on Tuesday. City officials declared a local emergency on Tuesday evening after the sinkhole appeared near 31630 Sea Level Drive.
The sinkhole is believed to have started developing on Monday and by Tuesday evening had grown to approximately 25-30ft deep and 30-by-60ft wide. Officials had initially responded to a “collapse of a driveway” and a gas leak reported early Tuesday morning.
Actor Nicolas Cage is reportedly the owner of the property where the sinkhole formed. He purchased the home in 2024. Gas service to the affected area has been shut off, and water service may also be discontinued.
By Tuesday evening, 31 properties were under an evacuation order. Seven homes were red-tagged due to hazardous conditions from the sinkhole, and another 24 residences were red-tagged because of lost vehicular access. Emergency personnel access is severely constrained due to the collapsed road, which is too narrow for response vehicles.
Officials have warned that conditions are likely to worsen with forecasted high tides and rains, and Post-tropical Cyclone Marie could bring increased rainfall and high surf. A temporary shelter has been established by the American Red Cross at Malibu high school.