New signs in Pismo Beach warn of cliff collapse

As we prepare for some wet weather, one area of the central coast is doing its part to help protect beachgoers from a potentially deadly situation.

No we aren’t talking sharks, but unstable cliffs.

The bluffs near Shell Beach has always had signs posted warning visitors about the potential dangers of unstable cliffs, but the rain and wind that hit the coast in early October has pushed some of the cliffs to the edge of disaster.

Romeo Cunnan walks the beach everyday, and says the signs are a welcome precaution.

“We’ve been talking about this almost everyday now coming down here, and what do you know we come down here and signs are up,” said Cunnan. “It’s kind of scary, but I’m glad they are addressing the problem.”

The Cliffs Hotel and Resort put up one sign urging those enjoying the beach to stay away from the cliffs edge, while the city of Pismo Beach put up others with the same message.

“The safety of our residents and visitors is always our first priority,” said Jim Lewis, Pismo Beach city manager. He says his staff routinely monitor the cliffs, constantly checking and identifying weak spots. Particularly when rough weather is in the forecast.

“The bluffs are dynamic, they slip, they fall to the beach, and that’s part of the system of coastal bluffs, and we want to make sure people are safe.”

The city will reevaluate the cliffs and beaches following the rainy weather.