Authorities in Santa Cruz County don't yet know when they will be able to clear a rockslide near Scotts Valley that has left dozens of residents stranded.
"We don't have a timescale for when the mud will be cleared," county analyst Melodye Serino said.
The slide occurred Monday on Nelson Road, blocking access to about 26 homes in the area of Nelson Road and Sky Meadow Lane.
Serino said local agencies have been meeting with residents to discuss plans to clear the dirt, but so far the best they've managed is an alternate route for pedestrians to walk around the fallen rocks.
The rain hasn't helped. Crews have been trying to get the mud off the pavement, but showers have prevented them from being able to clear the slide.
In the meantime, residents have been coping with the situation.
"Some people are worried," said sheriff's Deputy April Skalland, who has been assisting the rescue efforts. "Others realize this is nature of the beast when living up in the mountains."
Some residents who were initially stranded have been staying put, while others have left, Skalland said.
"Some people with children went to stay with family elsewhere," she said.
About four homes are still without power, and there is no estimate for when it will be restored.
