A dramatic cliff collapse on the scenic Atlantic coastline of Biarritz, the popular southwestern French resort town, has left one diver dead and another unaccounted for, local authorities confirmed Thursday. The massive section of cliff near the town’s iconic lighthouse gave way shortly after 8:20 p.m. local time on Wednesday, when three recreational divers were exploring the rocks at the base of the formation, according to an official statement released by Biarritz City Hall. Of the three divers caught in the collapse, one was able to climb to safety without injury and was immediately taken in by first responder teams who arrived on the scene rapidly. Emergency response units, including a team of specialized rescue divers, launched a large-scale search operation immediately after the incident. By Thursday, search crews had recovered the body of a female diver who was killed in the collapse. Search efforts for the second missing diver resumed at first light Thursday, with crews continuing to comb the area around the collapsed cliff. In the wake of the incident, local officials have implemented strict safety restrictions to prevent further harm: all public access to the area within 300 meters (985 feet) of the damaged cliff is prohibited, and the ban extends to all swimming and boating activities in that zone. The restrictions come as authorities warn of a high risk of additional cliff collapses in the area, as unstable sections of the rock formation remain standing after the initial incident. Biarritz, located in southwestern France along the Atlantic Basque Coast, is one of Europe’s most beloved tourist destinations, famous for its dramatic rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and reputation as a world-class surfing spot that draws outdoor enthusiasts and leisure travelers from across the globe each year.
A cliff collapses near Biarritz lighthouse, killing a diver and leaving another missing
