Truckloads of boulders were placed along a stretch of beach in Dana Point Wednesday, marking an emergency effort to protect properties from severe pounding surf and tidal erosion. The damage, attributed to high tides and swells generated by Hurricane Marie hundreds of miles offshore, has resulted in significant impacts to the Capistrano Bay District community on Beach Road.
Seven homes along the affected stretch have been deemed uninhabitable, marked with red tags, following the powerful surf. One of these properties partially collapsed into the sea. Additionally, two other homes received yellow tags, indicating limited access due to damage.
Damage assessments and ongoing work to protect structures continue across the Orange County coast in the aftermath of the heavy tides. City officials have been present on site, inspecting the extent of the damage and advising residents on safety measures, including when evacuation might be necessary.
Officials stated that Coastal Commission staff, responsible for issuing Emergency Coastal Development Permits, worked extended hours to assist residents in obtaining necessary services. Orange County Board Vice Chair Katrina Foley also visited the affected residents on Tuesday afternoon. Her visit aimed to assess the damage firsthand and connect individuals with available support services.
During her visit, Foley observed that homes equipped with piers appeared better positioned to withstand the waves. She noted that for these properties, decks were not washing away, with the primary concern being water moving underneath the structures. However, Foley described homes built on the sand in the 1950s as "just trashed," adding that one such house was completely demolished.
Foley emphasized that her presence was intended to be supportive, to help expedite processes, and to assist residents in navigating what she characterized as a frustrating bureaucracy. She also reported that county officials have been actively working on plans to replenish sand on the beaches as a long-term strategy for coastal protection.
According to Foley, a deeper beach would allow wave action to dissipate further out, away from homes, rather than reaching properties so closely. She underscored that this "has to be a priority if we want to protect our coast." Foley affirmed that county officials will continue to serve as a resource for residents, advocate for streamlined permitting processes, and assist with securing the permits necessary for home protection and long-term sand replenishment solutions.
