Update: Local emergency ratified

Carlsbad City Council ratifies storm-related local emergency to expedite storm drain repairs near coastal bluffs and protect public safety

During the Jan. 13 meeting, the City Council adopted a resolution to ratify the proclamation of a storm-related emergency, originally proclaimed on Jan. 7, 2026.

Staff can now move forward executing a public works contract and authorizing the contractor to proceed performing emergency work.

At this time, repairs are anticipated to begin this week and take several weeks to complete. In the meantime, members of the community are encouraged to take caution and avoid the area.

In anticipation of construction beginning, an alternate walkway has been created around the affected area and has been widened for public use. Fencing and signs are in place diverting the public to use the alternate walking path.

More information and updates will continue to be shared on the city’s website and social media channels.

City of Carlsbad proclaims storm-related local emergency to expedite storm drain repairs near coastal bluffs and protect public safety
posted 1/7/2026

The City of Carlsbad has proclaimed a storm-related local state of emergency to protect public safety and expedite repairs to storm drain infrastructure in the coastal bluffs near Carlsbad Boulevard and Solamar Drive that was damaged by recent storms.

A local emergency proclamation allows the city to move more quickly to address the issue by streamlining contracting and permitting processes.

The bluff area land is owned and monitored by California State Parks, and portions of the site were previously restricted due to erosion concerns. More recently, city staff observed additional erosion near the same general area. Out of an abundance of caution, the city placed barriers and caution tape to prevent public access.

After further investigation, the city determined recent rainstorm events have impacted the integrity of a city storm drain pipe and expedited repairs are needed to restore the pipe's integrity. Repairs are anticipated to begin by next week and take several weeks to complete. In the meantime, members of the community are encouraged to take caution and avoid the area.

Once construction begins, an alternate walkway around the affected area will be widened for public use. Fencing and signs will be posted diverting the public to the coming alternate walking path.

The action follows the Governor’s Dec. 24, 2025, emergency proclamation related to severe storms impacting San Diego County and other areas across the state.

“The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” said Geoff Patnoe, Carlsbad City Manager. “Proclaiming a local emergency allows us to act quickly, coordinate resources and reduce potential risks.”

The city will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as more information becomes available.

More information and updates will be shared on the city’s website and social media channels.

The California Emergency Services Act allows cities to proclaim a local state of emergency when needed to protect public safety in extreme circumstances. Carlsbad’s emergency proclamation goes into effect immediately and will be in place until the Jan. 13 City Council meeting, when the City Council will consider whether or not to ratify it. If ratified, the emergency proclamation would then need to be reviewed by the City Council at subsequent City Council meetings until the City Council ends the local state of emergency.

More information
Amy Ventetuolo, Communication & Engagement Director, amy.ventetuolo@carlsbadca.gov, 442-252-1449