A Tiny Hawaiian Island Disappears

Nov 6, 2018 By iridescent
iridescent's picture

At the beginning of October, Hurricane Walaka swept by many of Hawaii’s smaller islands.

In the hurricane’s wake, East Island, part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in Hawaii, completely disappeared underwater. The tiny 11-acre island was hit front and center by the storm. This small volcanic outcrop was formed just like other Hawaiian islands, from underwater volcanoes. They came to the surface when the sea levels dropped. 

East Island was not habited by people. However, it was a vital nesting site for endangered sea turtles and monk seals. Scientists estimate that up to 96% of sea turtles nest in those islands and many monk seals rest on its beaches. They are worried that with the dwindling populations for each species, the disappearing habitats could further damage the populations.

There is a small possibility that the water levels will lower and East Island will appear again. However, scientists warn that part of the reason that is unlikely to happen is due to global warming. With the water rising due to temperature increases, many other shallow islands could follow suit.

Sources: CNN, LiveScience

Comments

B0pper's picture
B0pper July 23, 2020 - 4:39pm
I like animals
THEBALOON2's picture
THEBALOON2 January 5, 2019 - 6:08pm

poor animals!

 

Spacefox15's picture
Spacefox15 November 24, 2018 - 12:08pm

 Portect the envorenment Peopole!

Sprinter99's picture
Sprinter99 November 17, 2018 - 4:37pm

This article shows how much we need to work on global warming. I love how you wrote about a beautiful island falling apart due to global warming because it shows that many peoples' favorite places to go on vacation are falling apart because of the higher tempratures and rising sea levels. Maybe add a picture of a Hawaiian Monk Seal so people care more (they are cute)?

Robotlover's picture
Robotlover November 23, 2018 - 5:15pm

I agree that this is a huge problem. Global warming needs to be slowed down. The sea levels will soon be too high. Great points.

Unicorn489304's picture
Unicorn489304 November 12, 2018 - 12:53pm

Love it so interesting