A popular geological feature in a Utah national park called the ‘Toilet Bowl’ has suddenly collapsed due to erosion, experts say.
The Double Arch formation in Rock Creek Bay in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area disintegrated on Thursday, according to the National Park Service.
Park rangers suspect that changing water levels and wave erosion at Lake Powell contributed to the disappearance of the feature, often called the “toilet bowl” or “hole in the ceiling.”
Double Arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone, which originated in the late Triassic to early Jurassic. Since its formation, this fine-grained sand formation has been subject to spalling and erosion by weather, wind and rain.
“These features have a lifespan that can be influenced or damaged by human-caused interventions,” said Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Michelle Kerns.
The Double Arch formation in Rock Creek Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (pictured before the collapse) collapsed on Thursday
Rangers suspect that changing water levels and wave erosion at Lake Powell contributed to the collapse (photo after collapse)
‘This event serves as a reminder of our responsibility and need to protect the mineral resources surrounding Lake Powell.
“While we don’t know what caused this collapse, we will continue our efforts to protect Lake Powell’s resources so that future generations can enjoy them. Enjoy our resources, but leave no trace.”
The National Park Service said no injuries were reported as a result of the collapse.
Heartbroken tourists have expressed their sadness at the tragic end of the fan-favourite outfit on social media.
“This is devastating news. The Double Arch at Lake Powell, also known as the Hole in the Roof or Toilet Bowl, is gone. It collapsed,” one person said.
“It’s sad. I have many memories of Lake Powell and fishing with my grandparents on their modest boat,” said another person.
Heartbroken tourists have expressed their sadness at the tragic end of the fan-favourite outfit on social media.
Double Arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo Sandstone that originated in the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods.
“We should have been there when the collapse happened. We went early in the morning to check it out and the damage is impressive,” said a third person.
Others pointed out that the collapse could be part of nature’s process and they think it is interesting to witness it.
“Sandstone is a pretty weak rock, but the moral is that nothing lasts forever. So enjoy every moment while you’re here,” one person said.
“It’s really interesting to be part of its collapse. It’s sad to see it disappear, but that’s the geological process and most of the time we don’t get to see sudden changes like this. Now it’s documented,” said another.
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