A portion of scenic Highway 1 in the Big Sur area of California collapsed on Saturday, leaving about 2,000 motorists, mostly tourists, stranded overnight. The collapse occurred in the Central Coast, with large chunks of the road falling into the ocean. Known for its breathtaking views of rocky cliffs, lush mountains, panoramic beaches, and coastal redwood forests, the Pacific Coast Highway will remain closed as crews work on the affected areas.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from the collapse. Officials from the California Department of Transportation did not provide an estimate for when the highway would fully reopen. The cause of the collapse remains unknown, but heavy rain in the area near Rocky Creek Bridge likely played a role.
Kevin Drabinski, a Caltrans spokesman, stated that the damage was severe enough to warrant a full closure of the highway on Saturday afternoon. By Sunday afternoon, some traffic began moving, and convoys with police escorts were sent to evacuate stranded motorists.
Many of those stranded were visitors enjoying the Easter holiday weekend, forced to sleep in temporary shelters or local accommodations. Emergency personnel are working to ensure the safe passage of all affected individuals, with another convoy scheduled for Monday morning if necessary.
The storm system responsible for the collapse brought rain, flash flooding, and snow to parts of California. A flood warning was issued in the San Diego area, with the storm expected to continue moving along the coast before heading inland. Weather forecasters warned of hail, strong winds, and even a risk of tornadoes.
This is not the first time Highway 1 has faced challenges due to severe weather. Last year, winter storms caused landslides that blocked a 20-mile stretch of Big Sur for several weeks. In January 2021, a storm also caused damage to the highway, leading to closures. Over the years, landslides have periodically impacted Highway 1, requiring repairs and closures.
Despite the challenges, the scenic beauty of Highway 1 continues to attract visitors from around the world. The area remains a popular destination for its stunning landscapes and coastal views, with officials urging people to avoid the affected area to allow for safe passage of emergency personnel and essential workers.
