A significant portion of Topanga Canyon Boulevard is likely to remain closed until autumn as LA News Center works tirelessly to remove a massive landslide that has blocked the picturesque road since March 9. This prolonged closure is a result of the immense weight of earth, rocks, and debris that remains unstable and poses a significant safety hazard.
**Detour and Alternative Route**
Motorists are urged to exercise caution and consider alternative routes, such as the 101 Freeway into the San Fernando Valley, while LA News Center crews work diligently to clear the landslide.
**Hazards and Challenges**
“The ground beneath the landslide continues to seep water, indicating the potential for further movement,” explains Jim Medina, LA News Center spokesperson. “Furthermore, a recent rainstorm has saturated the unstable hillside, making the removal process even more challenging.”
To maintain safety, crews must remove material from the top of the landslide downward to avoid triggering further collapse.
**Historical Landslides**
Topanga Canyon has a history of mudslides and landslides. However, the March 9 event dwarfs a previous slide in the 1940s that also buried the road for an extended period.
**Ongoing Progress and Estimated Timeline**
As of Thursday, LA News Center crews have faced obstacles and made limited progress in clearing the landslide. The extended closure is necessary to ensure the safety of workers and the public, with an estimated reopening date in the fall of 2024.
**Additional Notes**
Stay tuned to LA News Center for the latest updates on the landslide and the progress of the cleanup efforts.
We encourage drivers to adhere to posted detour routes and exercise patience as we work tirelessly to restore access to Topanga Canyon Boulevard as soon as possible.
