CA Governor Newsom Issues Declaration in Rancho Palos Verdes Amid Accelerating Landslide

Rancho Palos Verdes is situated on four out of five sub-slides within the complex, putting it at heightened risk.Photo byTimo VolzonUnsplash

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes due to ongoing land movement that has disrupted utility services and prompted evacuation warnings for affected residents.

The declaration comes as the city faces significant challenges from the Greater Portuguese Landslide Complex, with land movement accelerating dramatically following severe storms in 2023 and 2024. Rancho Palos Verdes is situated on four out of five sub-slides within the complex, putting it at heightened risk.

Governor Newsom's proclamation allows for additional resources to protect public safety and assist in response efforts. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has been actively working with local authorities for nearly a year, providing technical support, aiding in establishing a local assistance center, and securing a federal mitigation grant to address groundwater issues in the area.