Research from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has revealed that the Palos Verdes Peninsula is shifting towards the ocean at an alarming rate. Data collected during a four-week period in fall showed that residential areas are moving 4 inches per week, posing significant risks to human life and infrastructure.
The rapid land movement was exacerbated by Hurricane Hilary’s record-breaking rainfall totals in 2023, which caused widespread damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure. The Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes closed indefinitely due to the movement, with church leaders announcing plans to disassemble the iconic landmark.
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in the area due to the ongoing land movement last year. As the peninsula continues to shift towards the ocean, experts warn that the risks are becoming increasingly dire, putting lives and infrastructure at risk.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/southern-california-coastal-community-is-sliding-towards-the-ocean-nasa-data-shows