On September 8, 2026, the city of Malibu declared a local emergency and ordered evacuations for 31 homes following the emergence of a large sinkhole in the driveway of Nicolas Cage’s oceanfront residence. The sinkhole drew a response from the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s departments early in the morning, around 5:45 a.m., at the property located on the 31600 block of Sea Level Drive. Real estate documents confirm that the property belongs to the actor known for his roles in “Spider-Noir” and “Pig.” As of yet, Cage’s representatives have not provided any comments.
By evening, the sinkhole had expanded to approximately 25 feet in depth and 30 by 60 feet across. Authorities have raised concerns about worsening conditions owing to high tides and impending rain from Tropical Storm Marie. The emergency declaration highlights the immediate threat to nearby houses in the gated community close to Lechuza Beach. The city has red-tagged seven homes due to direct hazards and another 24 homes because safe vehicle access has been obstructed.
The emergency declaration also pointed out severely limited access for emergency personnel due to the collapsed road segment. This situation renders the remaining road portion too narrow for emergency response vehicles such as fire trucks, posing a significant risk to public safety and emergency operations.
As part of the response, a temporary shelter has been set up at Malibu High School on 30215 Morning View Drive. Gas has already been shut off in the affected area, and officials have cautioned that water service might also be suspended depending on developments.
Authorities have not specified how long evacuation orders might be in force. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has issued advisories for high surf and coastal flooding extending until 11 p.m. on Tuesday for Malibu, other L.A. County beaches, Catalina and Santa Barbara islands, and Ventura County beaches. Forecasts predict large waves between 4 to 7 feet, with local waves possibly hitting 8 feet. These conditions could lead to dangerous currents and life-threatening situations. Significant erosion and flooding are anticipated in low coastal areas during high tide.
The city has also cautioned against the coastal erosion risks posed by a powerful ‘super’ El Niño anticipated for this fall and winter. Forecasts suggest perilous conditions of record sea levels, severe coastal flooding, and drastic narrowing of California’s beaches.
In addition to his involvement in the current property crisis, Nicolas Cage is recognized for receiving an Oscar and Golden Globe for the film “Leaving Las Vegas” in 1995. Though his Prime Video series “Spider-Noir” had been anticipated to perform well in awards season, it has now been canceled.
Times staff writers Jack Flemming and Richard Winton contributed additional insights to this report.