The prominent 90-foot geological landmark known as the Hōlei Sea Arch at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has collapsed into the Pacific Ocean. It stood on the Big Island’s southern coast for more than five centuries, the U.S. National Park Service confirmed.
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Verify & Continue ReadingPark officials discovered the natural basalt structure missing after reopening the area on Monday, September 28. This followed a temporary closure for Tropical Storm Nolo that began on Wednesday, September 23. Authorities believe the arch crumbled and fell into the ocean sometime during the three-day park closure.
Geological History and Formation of the Hōlei Sea Arch
Formed approximately 550 years ago, the iconic vault was created by ancient lava flows from volcanic eruptions along the rift zones. Over the centuries, coastal ocean forces gradually carved through the rock. This shaped the distinct bridge-like formation at the end of Chain of Craters Road.
The geological feature faced continuous stress from turbulent surf, earthquake vibrations, and expanding structural cracks. Significant damage occurred during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse, which severely weakened the surrounding cliffside.
Prior Safety Closures and Storm Impacts
Due to growing instability and new fractures, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park closed the original viewing platform in January 2020. A safer, relocated viewing area further from the cliff edge opened to the public in March 2020.
Later that same year, severe surf generated by Tropical Storm Darby battered the coastline. It broke off a section of rock near the base of the arch. Park officials had repeatedly warned visitors that the formation was a temporary natural feature bound to succumb to constant coastal erosion.
Public Response and Safety Warnings
News of the collapse spread rapidly after visitors arrived at the end of Chain of Craters Road and noticed the landmark was gone. While many tourists expressed sadness over the loss of a major photography spot, park officials issued strict warnings against trespassing.
Social media posts captured individuals entering restricted areas near the former landmark site. Authorities stressed that the ocean cliffs remain highly unstable and prone to sudden, unpredictable collapses. These conditions pose severe risks to trespassers and emergency responders alike.
