In a precarious situation along the Southern California coast, multimillion-dollar homes perched on the edge of a cliffside in Dana Point have been declared safe to inhabit, despite the recent onslaught of historic storms triggering a landslide that sent mud and debris cascading along the structures.
The Golden State has faced severe weather challenges this month, resulting in a landslide that placed three opulent mansions at the brink of plunging into the Pacific Ocean. This unsettling scenario has prompted a thorough examination of the safety of these cliffside residences.
The Risk and Reassurance:
One of the affected properties, a lavish $15.9 million, four-bedroom mansion owned by 82-year-old radiologist Lewis Bruggeman, saw a significant portion of the cliff collapsing at its base.
Contrary to initial concerns, Bruggeman affirms the structural integrity of his residence, stating that it remains unthreatened and will not be red-tagged.
Dana Point City Manager Mike Killebrew concurs, stating, ‘Currently the city has confirmed that there is no imminent threat to that home.’ The city’s geotechnical engineer and a building sector have conducted assessments, providing reassurance to the homeowner.
Engineering Expertise Raises Concerns:
While officials maintain that the Dana Point cliffside properties are safe for habitation, some engineering experts express reservations.
Kyle Tourjé, Executive Vice President of Alpha Structural, a Los Angeles engineering firm, emphasizes the need for extensive stabilization efforts to fortify these residences against the potential impact of future storms.
He notes a pattern of increased damage, anticipating more significant structural challenges due to consecutive years of heavy saturation. The looming question remains – can these houses withstand the relentless battering they have been subjected to?
Homes at the Edge: A Trio in Peril:
Bruggeman’s residence is part of a trio of homes delicately poised on the cliff, situated adjacent to the Ocean Institute, a prominent local attraction.
The collapse of the cliff affected Bruggeman’s property and a $12.8 million residence owned by contracting mogul Guy Yocom.
Fortunately, Yocom’s residence, positioned slightly lower, remained intact. Another residence, valued at $13 million and owned by local producer Marketta Karsikko-Gassel, although appearing in better condition, still grapples with instability.
Regional Woes: A Series of Incidents:
The Dana Point landslide marks the latest in a series of incidents plaguing Southern California in recent weeks.
Approximately 13 miles south, a mudslide caused part of a cul-de-sac on Avenida Columbo to drop about five feet, hurling debris over 150 feet below.
Landslides along oceanfront bluffs in San Clemente prompted closures of beach trails, and stair access points were deemed unsafe due to continuing instability in the area.
Forecast: More Rain and Potential Challenges Ahead:
As the region braces for further challenges, the National Weather Service predicts more rain for the Los Angeles area, warning of possible mud and rock slides.
The forecast anticipates light rain and mountain snow, with total rainfall estimated at a quarter inch or less.
Against this backdrop, the resilience of these cliffside mansions faces ongoing scrutiny, highlighting the delicate balance between luxury living and the formidable forces of nature in Southern California.