A prominent geological formation in southern Utah, known as the ‘Double Arch,’ has unexpectedly collapsed. Park officials from the National Park Service announced the incident on Friday, confirming no injuries were sustained. The popular arch, located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, succumbed to the forces of nature on Thursday. Park rangers suspect that fluctuations in water levels and erosion caused by waves in Lake Powell played a significant role in its demise.
Michelle Kerns, superintendent of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which straddles the border of Utah and Arizona, emphasized the importance of protecting the mineral resources surrounding the lake. In a statement, she highlighted that the collapse serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of these natural features to human interventions.
The arch, a captivating geological marvel, was formed from Navajo sandstone dating back 190 million years, originating during the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods. This fine-grained sandstone has withstood the relentless forces of erosion from weather, wind, and rain over millennia.
Spanning nearly 2,000 square miles (5,180 square kilometers), the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a cherished destination for boaters and hikers, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. The collapse of the ‘Double Arch’ serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of natural wonders and the importance of responsible stewardship in preserving these irreplaceable treasures for future generations.
