Leatherman, S.P., 2025. Collapsing sand holes: Unrecognized beach hazard. Journal of Coastal Research, 41(1), 184–186. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208.

Digging holes on sandy beaches may appear to be an interesting pastime, but it can also be a very dangerous endeavor when the holes are too deep and especially when the participants are children. While wetted sand can hold up to a 90-degree angle, exposed sand in a hole will eventually dry and collapse episodically. Also, the hole can collapse if another person stands on the edge. Sand burial and suffocation can result from the lack of understanding of the danger of sand holes.