Warning about a popular place for Lithuanians: advised to be more cautious
Specialists have identified soil landslides near the Dutch Cap cliff, urging visitors to exercise caution due to their regular occurrence each spring.
Last weekend, specialists from the Pajūrio Regional Park discovered soil landslides forming at the Dutch Cap cliff. These types of landslides are not unusual at this site, evidenced by their annual appearance every spring. The phenomenon occurs due to the thawing of frostbound groundwater from winter, which causes sand to be washed away through the cliffs' channels, subsequently shaping distinctive ice sculptures that attract numerous visitors during winter months.
However, the fluctuating temperatures between positive and negative respectively can lead to larger and more pronounced landslides as frozen groundwater separates and dislodges larger pieces of the cliff. This year, the region has experienced an exceptionally cold winter followed by a rapid rise in temperatures and significant variability in recent weeks, increasing the likelihood of sand landslides occurring earlier than usual at the Dutch Cap this spring.
As spring progresses, rising temperatures are expected to elevate river levels while also causing nighttime freeze-thaw cycles, which together may prompt additional caution for locals and visitors alike in navigating the area. This advisory serves as a timely reminder for the community about the natural dynamics of coastal landscapes, emphasizing the need for mindfulness in visiting popular but potentially hazardous sites.