Erosion On California Cliffsides Frequently Disrupts Amtrak's Southern California Route

DEL MAR, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 16: An aerial view of waves breaking near eroding cliffs on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner rail corridor at the Pacific Ocean coastline on August 16, 2024 in Del Mar, California. Rising sea levels and stronger storms have contributed to increased erosion and landslides along the vital Amtrak Pacific Surfliner coastal rail corridor which runs over 350 miles through Southern California to California’s Central Coast. Erosion and landslides on coastal bluffs led to three extended closures along the route in 2023 and 2024 and twelve shutdowns in the past six years. With climate change expected to bring more intense storms and higher seas, most officials believe vulnerable sections of the corridor will need to be moved inland. The scenic route is the second-most popular Amtrak corridor in the country and also serves commuter and freight trains. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)