Rock slide shuts Agate Street beach access as city evaluates bluff
A rock slide below the Agate Street beach access stairway Tuesday afternoon prompted Laguna Beach officials to close the area while a geologist evaluates the stability of the bluff.
The slide occurred September 29 below the stairway viewpoint, sending a significant section of rock down toward the shoreline and leaving large boulders and debris beneath the access stairs.
No injuries were reported, according to the city of Laguna Beach.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of city of Laguna Beach
Large sections of the bluff and fallen rock are visible below the Agate Street beach access stairway following Tuesday afternoon’s rock slide
Laguna Beach Fire and Marine Safety personnel responded following the slide and closed the beach access as a precaution. The city advised residents and visitors to stay out of the area and follow all posted closures while the site is being evaluated.
A city geologist was at the site Wednesday to assess the bluff and determine whether additional instability or hazards remain. The city said it would know more once that assessment was complete.
The Agate Street beach access remains closed until the area is confirmed safe.
Video by James Pribram
A closer look at the large rocks and debris beneath the Agate Street beach access following Tuesday’s slide
The city-provided aerial images show a sizable portion of the rock face missing beneath the stairway, with large pieces of sandstone scattered along the shoreline below. The stair structure remains standing in the images, although officials have not yet announced the extent of any damage or whether repairs will be necessary before the access can reopen.
The incident comes as Laguna Beach continues to monitor coastal erosion and bluff conditions following recent strong surf and damage along portions of the city’s coastline.
City officials said updates on the Agate Street closure and the geologist’s assessment will be shared through the city’s communication channels.
