Ancient 'Toilet Bowl' Utah tourist hotspot rock formation suddenly collapses - as experts reveal what caused it
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 at Rock Creek Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area fell apart on Thursday, according to the National Park Service.
Park rangers suspect changing water levels and erosion from waves in Lake Powell contributed to the features - often called the 'Toilet Bowl' or 'Hole in the Roof' - demise.
Double Arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone originating in the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods. Since formation, this fine-grained sand feature has been subject to spalling and erosion from weather, wind and rain.
'These features have a life span that can be influenced or damaged by manmade interventions,' said Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Michelle Kerns.
Park rangers suspect changing water levels and erosion from waves in Lake Powell contributed to the collapse (pictured 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 to maintain our resource protection efforts on Lake Powell for future generations to enjoy. Please enjoy our resources but leave no trace.'
The National Park Service said no injuries were reported as a result of the collapse.
Heartbroken tourist have expressed their sadness over the tragic ending of the fan favorite formation on social media.
'This is devastating news, Double Arch at Lake Powel which is also know as Hole in the Roof, Toilet Bowl, it's gone. It collapsed, ' said one person.
'Sad. I have so many memories or lake Powell and fishing with my grandparents on their modest boat,' said a second person.
'We were supposed to be there when the collapse happened. We did go first thing this morning to check it out and the damage is mind blowing,' said a third person.
Others pointed out the collapse could be a part of the process of nature and think it is interesting to be able to witness it.
'Sandstone is a pretty weak rock. But the moral is nothing last for ever. So enjoy each moment while it's here,' said one person.
'It’s actually kind of cool to be part of its collapse. Sad to see it go but that’s the geological process and most times we don’t get to see the sudden changes such as this. Now it’s documented,' said another.
- This article has been amended since publication to remove imagery which featured a different rock formation to the one which collapsed.
