CARLSBAD — The city has declared a storm-related local emergency to expedite repairs to storm drain infrastructure damaged by recent storms near the coastal bluffs along Carlsbad Boulevard and Solamar Drive.
The emergency proclamation allows the city to streamline contracting and permitting processes to move repairs forward more quickly, city officials said.
Portions of the site, owned and monitored by California State Parks, had previously been restricted due to erosion concerns. City staff recently observed additional erosion in the same general area and placed barriers and caution tape to prevent public access.
The city later determined that recent rainstorms had damaged a city-owned storm drain, necessitating expedited repairs, which are expected to begin next week and take several weeks. Residents and visitors are encouraged to avoid the area.
During construction, the city plans to widen a temporary alternate walkway around the damaged area for public use, with fencing and signage helping direct pedestrians to the route.
The local action follows the governor’s Dec. 24, 2025, emergency proclamation related to severe storms impacting San Diego County and other parts of the state.
“The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” said City Manager Geoff Patnoe. “Proclaiming a local emergency allows us to act quickly, coordinate resources and reduce potential risks.”
The city said it will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as additional information becomes available. Updates will be posted on the city’s website and social media channels.
Under the California Emergency Services Act, cities may proclaim a local state of emergency when necessary to protect public safety in extreme circumstances.
Carlsbad’s emergency proclamation took effect immediately and will remain in place until a Jan. 13 City Council meeting, when the council will consider whether to ratify it. If ratified, the proclamation must be reviewed at subsequent council meetings until the council formally ends the local state of emergency.
