The Ocean Just Swallowed Part of a Beach in Australia [Video]

By Amanda Froelich

Recently, part of a beach in Queensland, Australia was swallowed by the ocean following a landslip in the area.

The Guardian reports that the “nearshore landslip” took place overnight on Sunday, September 23. The gap on Rainbow Beach at Inskip Point is believed to be about 200-300 meters (650 to 980 feet) wide and 7.5 meters (25 feet) deep.

Fortunately, no one was injured in the event. People have been told to avoid the area following the event, however.

What caused the landslip?

Experts believe the hole was caused by erosion. Said the Queensland’s Department of Environment and Science said in a statement: “It’s likely this erosion has been caused by the undermining of part of the shoreline by tidal flow, waves and currents. When this occurs below the waterline, the shoreline loses support and a section slides seaward leaving a hole, the edges of which retrogress back towards the shore.”

After Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers inspected the area, they reported a slight expansion in the hole due to high ride and wave action. Rumors of a second landslip in the area where found to be unfounded — though concern is warranted, as a similar event occurred in 2015.

Watch footage of the nearshore landslip below:

According to Diana Journeaux from Rainbow Beach Helicopters, the hole seemingly appeared overnight. “We fly every day and it wasn’t there yesterday,” she said told the Brisbane Times. But by early Monday morning, the phenomena’s presence was already recognized.

History of Landslips

This is the third landslip in just a handful of years. The most recent hole is located just a few hundred meters from another landslip which occurred in September 2015. Another hit the region in 2016. As a result, it is more than likely that additional landslips will occur.

“We could see another one in 12 months, or we could see one in a few years,” Peter Davies from the University of the Sunshine Coast told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “All we can say with any certainty is that it’s an inherent unstable area and will do this periodically.”

Proximity Concerns

The nearest campground is approximately 150 meters (490 feet) away from the landslip. Though officials do not think the hole will grow any larger, they are keeping a close eye on the shoreline to ensure the public’s safety.

What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!

Source: The Guardian, Brisbane Times, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS)

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