A famed Hawaii sea arch collapses, prompting NPS warnings of unstable cliffs

Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park witnessed the collapse of the historic Holei Sea Arch, a 90-foot high cliff on the wave-swept coast. The National Park Service (NPS) confirmed the incident, which occurred between September 23 and September 27, possibly during Tropical Storm Nolo. The collapse of the arch, which had stood for around 550 years, was not unexpected but marks a significant transformation of the park's rugged coastline, according to the NPS.

Social media users interpreted the event as nature taking its course. However, park officials emphasized the instability of the site, warning visitors to stay away due to the severe falling hazard. The arch, named after a small endemic plant in the milkweed family, served as a popular tourist attraction. The NPS urged people to avoid entering the closed area near the collapse site, as it posed a significant risk to both visitors and first responders.