Collapse of Hawaii’s Holei Sea Arch Highlights Nature’s Impact

A picturesque cliff on Hawaii’s Big Island has collapsed, as confirmed by the National Park Service. The Holei Sea Arch, situated in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stood approximately 90 feet tall before its collapse. The exact moment of this collapse, happening between September 23 and September 27, remains unknown. This event possibly occurred when the park was temporarily closed due to Tropical Storm Nolo.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park mentioned in a social media update, “The exact time of the collapse is unknown and could have occurred when the park was temporarily closed during Tropical Storm Nolo.” Nolo, achieving wind speeds of 155 mph, moved past Hawaii’s Big Island, bringing intense rains and winds. In response, Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced an emergency declaration approved by the Trump administration to deliver federal resources for the state’s recovery from Nolo.

Images shared by USGS show the site before and after its collapse into the Pacific Ocean. Previously, in August, Hawaii faced another storm—Tropical Storm Lala—which resulted in the loss of around 100 homes, instigated landslides, and widespread power failures.

“This formation is beautiful, but temporary, and has a limited life span,” the NPS noted in a social media post, explaining the collapse was anticipated as part of the park’s evolving coastline.

The park service advised visitors to stay clear from the now unstable site, warning of potential hazards related to falling or drowning. Despite warnings, social media posts reveal individuals entering the area where the sea arch used to stand, endangering themselves and first responders.

The Holei Sea Arch became a popular tourist site, formed approximately 550 years ago. Its name is derived from a small endemic plant belonging to the milkweed family.