Malibu Driveway Collapses Into Sinkhole As High Surf Pounds Coast

MALIBU, CA — Pounding surf and coastal erosion caused a beachfront home's driveway to collapse into a large sinkhole Tuesday morning, rupturing a gas main, according to authorities.

Los Angeles County Fire Department crews responded at about 5:45 a.m. to the 31600 block of Sea Level Drive East near Point Lechuza.

Firefighters found that part of the driveway had collapsed and called Southern California Gas Co. to shut off the damaged gas line, a fire department spokesman said.

No injuries were reported and the home was unoccupied.

A Los Angeles County Fire Department public information officer told KTLA the sinkhole was estimated to be about 30 feet by 30 feet and was caused by coastal erosion. Video from the scene showed waves crashing beneath the home through the collapsed section of driveway.

Malibu Building and Safety personnel were called to evaluate the home's structural integrity. It was not immediately clear whether officials had deemed the residence unsafe to occupy.

The collapse came as high surf continued to batter the Southern California coastline following rainfall and swells associated with Tropical Storm Marie.

A high surf advisory and coastal flood advisory were scheduled to remain in effect through 11 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters expected large breaking waves and dangerous rip and longshore currents, with elevated tides increasing the risk of coastal flooding.

City News Service contributed to this report.