09/14/2026
Following the massive swell driven by Hurricane Lowell, we finally got back underwater to assess the site—and the landscape has changed forever. Massive concrete pylons that stood anchored for decades were toppled by the sheer energy of the surge, as seen in the videos.
Even more heartbreaking to witness is the damage to the resident cleaning station. Coral heads and structural outcroppings that served as daily gathering spots for turtles, tangs, and wrasses took a big hit, essentially breaking it in half.
Reefs and dive sites are living, dynamic environments. While it’s tough to see a familiar sanctuary upended overnight, marine ecosystems are built on renewal. New crevices have opened, fresh substrate is exposed, and the resident sea life is already beginning to adapt to the new topography. It’s a somber reminder of the raw power of the Pacific—and a new chapter for this site that we’ll be documenting.
reefcheck
📸Dave Lionheart
