Hawaii sea arch collapses into Pacific Ocean 550 years after its formation
The Holei Sea Arch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has collapsed into the Pacific Ocean after 550 years of existence. Officials believe the collapse occurred during recent severe weather from Tropical Storm Nolo and have warned visitors to avoid the unstable site.
Why it matters
The event illustrates the ongoing geological transformation of coastal landscapes and the risks posed to tourists by natural erosion.
A scenic cliff on the wave-swept coast of Hawaii's Big Island has collapsed, the National Park Service said.The Holei Sea Arch, located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, was about 90 feet high before it collapsed sometime between Sept. 23 and Sept. 27, possibly when the park was temporarily closed during Hurricane Nolo."The exact time of the collapse is unknown and could have occurred when the park was temporarily closed during Tropical Storm Nolo," said the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park in a social media post.Nolo — which reached winds of 155 mph — moved past Hawaii's Big Island and brought heavy rain and winds to the state last week. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said the Trump administration approved an emergency declaration for Hawaii that will provide federal resources and assistance to the state in its recovery from Nolo.
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