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Hawaii Sea Arch Collapses, Park Issues Safety Warning

A 90‑foot cliff known as Holei Sea Arch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park fell between September 23 and 27, 2026, during a period when the park was briefly closed for Tropical Storm Nolo. The collapse, which sent the arch into the Pacific Ocean, was not unexpected but marks another change to the park’s rugged coastline. Park officials warned that the area is unstable and poses a serious falling hazard, urging visitors to stay away. Social media posts showed people entering the closed zone near the former arch, putting themselves and first responders at risk of falling and drowning. The collapse underscores the dynamic nature of the island’s geology and the importance of respecting park safety notices.

· abcnews.go.com

The essential points

  1. 01Holei Sea Arch, 90‑foot cliff, collapsed between Sept. 23‑27, 2026
  2. 02Collapse occurred during temporary park closure for Tropical Storm Nolo
  3. 03Park warns visitors of unstable cliffs and serious falling hazard
  4. 04Social media shows people entering closed area, risking falls and drowning
The full brief

A 90‑foot cliff known as Holei Sea Arch in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park fell between September 23 and 27, 2026, during a period when the park was briefly closed for Tropical Storm Nolo. The collapse, which sent the arch into the Pacific Ocean, was not unexpected but marks another change to the park’s rugged coastline. Park officials warned that the area is unstable and poses a serious falling hazard, urging visitors to stay away.

Social media posts showed people entering the closed zone near the former arch, putting themselves and first responders at risk of falling and drowning. The collapse underscores the dynamic nature of the island’s geology and the importance of respecting park safety notices.