The 90-foot Holei Sea Arch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has collapsed into the Pacific Ocean.
The collapse occurred between September 23 and September 27 after severe tropical storm activity on the Big Island.
Park officials confirmed the loss after reopening the park on September 28, which had been temporarily closed during Tropical Storm Nolo.
The natural rock formation was created roughly 550 years ago from ancient lava flows and ocean erosion.
A Collapse Experts Had Anticipated
The collapse was anticipated by experts, as the surrounding coastal cliffs had suffered damage from earthquakes during the 2018 Kilauea volcanic eruption.
New cracks appeared in 2020, and heavy surf from recent Pacific storms like Tropical Storm Darby and Hurricane Nolo further weakened the structure.
The United States Geological Survey detailed the natural life cycle of the geological landmark in a statement.
"The arch formed in ancient lava flows by removing rock along cracks and weaker rocks," said the United States Geological Survey.
"It will not be here for ever. Every day the ocean crashes against the pillar of the arch, eroding it a little more.
One day, it will be gone."
Park staff on social media acknowledged the emotional significance of the lost landmark while highlighting the dynamic changes along the coast.
"Yes, it's true. RIP Hōlei Sea Arch," said Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
"Hōlei Sea Arch was a very special place to so many of our visitors."
The National Park Service previously noted that geological processes like differential erosion naturally alter the coastline over time.
"This formation is beautiful, but temporary, and has a limited life span," said the National Park Service.
"The sea arch will eventually crumble into the sea. However, others will replace it as the cliff slowly migrates inland."
Park authorities warned visitors to remain far away from the unstable cliff edges.
They noted that recent photos show individuals entering closed areas and risking severe injury from cliff collapse.
