Highway 1 Reopens After Collapse and Stranding Motorists in Easter Weekend Storm

After a section of California's picturesque Highway 1 collapsed during an Easter weekend storm, causing closures and stranding motorists near Big Sur, traffic is once again flowing smoothly, authorities announced on Sunday.

Collapse and Evacuation Plan

The collapse occurred on Saturday afternoon near Rocky Creek Bridge, about 17 miles (27 kilometers) south of Monterey, due to heavy rain. Chunks of asphalt tumbled into the ocean from the southbound side of the two-lane roadway, leading to closures in both directions. The California Highway Patrol stated that engineers assessed the damage and were working on a plan to evacuate motorists from the area. However, the number of stranded individuals was not disclosed by officials.

Travel Resumes and Highway History

By Sunday afternoon, crews confirmed the safety of travel in the northbound lane and began escorting motorists around the damaged section. It is not uncommon for the famous highway to experience closures due to collapses, mud flows, and rockslides during severe weather.

Weather Conditions

The recent storm brought heavy rain at lower elevations and over a foot (0.3 meters) of snow at Sierra Nevada ski resorts near Lake Tahoe. According to Ryan Kittell, a National Weather Service meteorologist, the system was typical for March and not an atmospheric river like many previous storms that have hit the state in recent winters. The storm primarily affected the Los Angeles area after moving down the California coast, with the possibility of showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and damaging winds in parts of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and LA counties.