A significant cliff collapse occurred Wednesday evening near the lighthouse in Biarritz, a resort town on France's southwestern Atlantic coast. The incident resulted in the death of one diver and left another missing, according to local authorities.
The collapse happened around 8:20 p.m. as three divers were near the base of the cliff, the Biarritz City Hall stated. One individual from the group managed to escape unharmed and received assistance from emergency teams. Rescuers, including specialized divers, initiated a search operation for the other two individuals. The body of a female diver was recovered, and searches for the second missing diver resumed on Thursday.
Officials have prohibited public access, swimming, and boating within a 300-meter (985-foot) radius of the cliff due to the ongoing risk of further collapses. Biarritz is a well-known tourist destination, recognized for its rugged cliffs, beaches, and its status as a prominent European surfing location.