The City of Malibu has ordered the evacuation of seven homes and issued emergency declarations after a 30ft by 60ft sinkhole collapsed part of Sea Level Drive, swallowing the driveway of a beachfront property reportedly owned by actor Nicolas Cage.
Local authorities confirmed the sinkhole opened early Tuesday morning, prompting the evacuation of additional homes due to impaired vehicular access and hazardous conditions. Emergency services responded to a gas leak linked to the structural failure, which was later secured by SoCalGas. No injuries have been reported.
City declares 'imminent danger' as sinkhole grows
The City of Malibu issued an emergency order on Tuesday, labeling the situation an 'imminent danger' to residents. Officials stated that 24 additional homes were at risk of being red-tagged due to unsafe road conditions. Gas service to the affected area has been shut off, with water service potentially discontinued as conditions evolve.
The sinkhole’s collapse occurred amid coastal flooding warnings tied to Tropical Storm Marie, which had previously been a hurricane. Local reports noted that waves were lapping into the crater, exacerbating structural instability. Aerial footage showed the massive void in front of the property, with emergency vehicles unable to access the area due to road collapse.
Neighbors describe sudden escalation
Residents reported that an 8ft sinkhole had formed on Monday, initially causing little concern. However, further ground collapse in the early hours of Tuesday expanded the crater to 30ft wide and 25–30ft deep, swallowing part of the driveway and leaving debris in the hole. One resident told Los Angeles magazine that the situation escalated rapidly, stating, “All hell broke loose” as the damage worsened.
Actor’s absence noted amid ongoing response
Cage, who purchased the $10.5 million property in 2024, has not been seen at the residence since the sinkhole appeared. Authorities and local media have contacted representatives for comment, but no statement has been issued.
Weather conditions complicate recovery efforts
The sinkhole’s formation coincides with intensified tides and rainfall from Hurricane Marie, compounded by a strong El Niño event with a 90% chance of escalating into a 'super' event, according to government forecasts. The combination of severe weather and structural instability has delayed immediate assessments of the property’s foundation.
Emergency crews continue to monitor the site, with traffic cones cordoning off the area. The City of Malibu has not provided a timeline for reopening Sea Level Drive or allowing displaced residents to return.