Now, if you’re living in the United States and someone asks you, “in which state are sinkholes most common?” What’s the first thing that comes to your mind?
Well, I can bet my last dollar that the majority of you will say Florida!
And you know what?
You are absolutely right.
Florida is the “lucky” state with the most sinkhole frequency.
I remember my first time visiting Florida, driving down the streets, and looking at the beautiful palm trees and alligators.
But there was one thing that kept catching my eye, and that was the abundance of sinkholes!
I couldn’t believe how many I saw!
It was like the earth was trying to swallow everything up!
Now, I’m not a scientist, but I can tell you that Florida has a lot of sinkholes due to its geology.
You see, the state is mostly made up of limestone and other porous rocks that are prone to dissolve over time, leading to the formation of underground cavities.
And when the surface layer of soil and rock becomes too heavy, it collapses into these cavities, creating sinkholes.
And let me tell you, these sinkholes can be pretty scary.
Just a few months ago, a man lost his life when a sinkhole opened up under his bedroom!
Can you imagine that?
Sleeping peacefully one minute, and the next, you’re being swallowed up by the ground?
It’s like something straight out of a horror movie.
But hey, Florida’s not all bad.
I mean, the sunshine state has some pretty amazing beaches, Disney World, and some of the best Cuban sandwiches you’ll ever taste.
So, if you ever find yourself in Florida, just keep an eye out for those pesky sinkholes.
And who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky and spot an alligator or two.
In Which State are Sinkholes Most Common?
The lucky seven states that suffer the most from sinkhole damage are Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania.
The Most Common States for Sinkholes – Chart
| State | Risk (1.0 – 10.0) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | 9.8 | Florida is notorious for sinkholes due to its geological composition. The state sits on a foundation of limestone, which is prone to dissolving over time, leading to the formation of underground cavities that can cause sudden sinkhole collapses. |
| Texas | 7.5 | Certain areas of Texas, particularly in the central and north regions, experience sinkhole activity. This is primarily due to the presence of soluble rocks like limestone and gypsum, which can dissolve and create voids beneath the surface. |
| Missouri | 7.2 | Missouri has a significant number of sinkholes, especially in the southern and central parts of the state. The abundance of limestone and dolomite formations makes it vulnerable to sinkhole occurrences. |
| Pennsylvania | 6.9 | While not as widely known for sinkholes as Florida, Pennsylvania still experiences sinkhole activity. This is primarily due to the presence of soluble rocks, such as limestone and dolomite, as well as coal mining activities that can weaken underground structures. |
| Alabama | 6.7 | Alabama has a moderate risk of sinkholes, mainly in the northern and central parts of the state. The underlying geology, consisting of limestone and other soluble rocks, contributes to the formation of sinkholes. |
| Kentucky | 6.4 | Kentucky is prone to sinkholes, particularly in areas with limestone and karst topography. These features, combined with factors like underground water flow and erosion, increase the risk of sinkhole formation. |
| Tennessee | 6.2 | Tennessee experiences sinkhole activity, especially in regions underlain by limestone and dolomite. Natural processes like erosion, as well as human activities such as mining and construction, contribute to the risk of sinkhole formation. |
| Indiana | 5.8 | Indiana is susceptible to sinkholes, primarily in the southern part of the state. The presence of soluble rocks, such as limestone and dolomite, makes certain areas prone to sinkhole collapses. |
| Georgia | 5.6 | Georgia experiences a moderate risk of sinkholes, particularly in areas with limestone and karst terrain. The dissolution of soluble rocks over time can create underground voids, leading to the formation of sinkholes. |
| New York | 5.3 | While sinkholes are not as prevalent in New York compared to some other states on this list, certain regions with soluble rock formations can be at risk. Factors such as water flow and human activities can contribute to sinkhole formation. |
| Louisiana | 5.1 | Louisiana has a moderate risk of sinkholes, primarily in areas with soluble rock formations. Factors like subsidence and erosion can lead to sinkhole collapses, especially in regions prone to underground cavities. |
| Virginia | 4.9 | Virginia experiences some sinkhole activity, particularly in areas with limestone and karst landscapes. The dissolution of soluble rocks, coupled with factors like water flow and erosion, contributes to the risk of sinkhole formation. |
| Ohio | 4.6 | Ohio has a moderate risk of sinkholes, primarily in regions with limestone and karst topography. Natural processes like erosion and the dissolution of soluble rocks can lead to the formation of sinkholes. |
| South Carolina | 4.3 | While sinkholes are not as common in South Carolina as in some other states, areas with soluble rocks can be at risk. Factors such as groundwater movement and erosion can contribute to the formation of sinkholes. |
| West Virginia | 4.1 | West Virginia experiences a moderate risk of sinkholes, primarily in regions with limestone and karst landscapes. Natural processes like water flow, erosion, and the dissolution of soluble rocks can contribute to sinkhole formation. |
| Mississippi | 3.8 | Mississippi has a relatively low risk of sinkholes compared to some other states. However, areas with soluble rocks, particularly limestone, can be susceptible to sinkhole formation. |
Now, I know some of you all might be thinking:
“What the heck is a sinkhole, Jack?” Well, let me break it down for you.
A sinkhole is a depression or hole in the ground caused by the collapse of the surface layer.
In Florida, sinkholes are more common due to the porous carbonate rocks like limestone that make up the underground of the state’s peninsula.
This rock is like a sponge, soaking up and moving groundwater.
Now, here’s where things get wild.
When acidic water comes into contact with the limestone for an extended period, it dissolves and washes away the rock.
This creates a vacuum beneath the limestone, making it weak and unable to support the heavy sand and dirt on top of it.
Eventually, the limestone caves in, and voila, a sinkhole is born.
Sinkholes can form naturally, but human activities like drilling, construction, and mining can trigger them too.
Experts say the rate of sinkholes forming in Florida isn’t higher than it used to be, but they’re now happening more frequently in populated areas.
This is a big concern because no one wants to wake up and find their house swallowed by the earth.
Recently, insurance companies in Florida have seen a surge in sinkhole claims, but some of them are being labeled as doubtful.
Now, I’m not one to doubt anyone, but I can see how some folks might try to take advantage of the situation.
Personally, I’ve never experienced a sinkhole, but I remember reading a story about a guy in Florida whose backyard caved in and revealed a massive sinkhole.
He was shocked, but honestly, I would have been stoked!
Imagine having your own private sinkhole pool.
It would be like a natural jacuzzi!
All jokes aside, sinkholes are no laughing matter.
They can cause serious damage to property and even be life-threatening.
So, if you live in one of the sinkhole-prone states, make sure to keep an eye out for any warning signs and stay safe,
Sinkholes Trigger
Indeed, sinkholes form naturally, but heavy rain, drought, tropical storms, and human activities can trigger them.
Heavy pumping of groundwater for any reason, well drilling, earth excavation, creating landfills, leaking broken water lines, and pounding or blasting from construction sites are some of the human activities that trigger sinkholes.
Most Common Places Sinkholes Happen
Hernando, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties are the three countries in the Tampa region that are called sinkhole alleys.
From records, between 2006 and 2010 two-thirds of the total sinkhole damage claims filed with insurance companies in Florida came from these three places.
There are a few sinkhole reports in South Florida.
This is where Broward and Miami-Dade, the two most populous cities in Florida are located.
A report from the Florida Insurance Regulation body has it that in recent years, there is an upsurge in the number of sinkholes-related claims that are filed in their offices.
It said that in 2006 there was a report of 2,300 claims all over Florida.
However, the figure jumped to 6,700 claims in 2010.
Geology is yet to give us the reason behind this rise, and insurance components believe that some of the claims are dubious.
For a policyholder to be able to receive indemnity for a sinkhole, his house must have suffered structural damage.
Insurance companies sometimes said they pay the claims without proof.
The USGS said that about 20 percent of the lands in America stand the risk of being victims of sinkholes.
Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania have the highest reported cases of sinkholes in the country.
Sinkhole risk
There is the risk that underground cavities can form in these places, resulting in dangerous sinkholes.
The places that have evaporates, or the slash-covered areas that have salt, gypsum, and anhydrite in their ground.
Another area is an area with carbonates, also known as orange areas which have limestone and dolomite under their ground.
About 35 to 40 percent of America’s land areas have evaporate rocks under its soil.
In some states, you will see them very deep in the ground.
Areas that have evaporated, like salt, gypsum, and anhydrite, and carbonates like limestone and dolomite are areas that are vulnerable to underground cavities and catastrophic sinkholes.
About 35 to 40 percent of American land mass have evaporated rocks underlining them, although you will get them buried very deep in the ground in some places, according to USGS.
Every sinkhole is not the terrifying cover-collapse sinkholes that suddenly develop, and result in serious damage.
However, there are cover-subsidence sinkholes.
They develop slowly, and as the soil gives way the land over them carves in.
Other places sinkhole happens
The places you will see fake sinkholes in the world are the Khammouan Mountains of Laos and the Mamo Plateau in Papua New Guinea.
You will see the largest sinkhole that is formed on sandstone in Venezuela, China, and Mexico.
Yucatan Peninsula and Tamaulipas is where you will see sinkhole filled with water.
It is called Zacaton, and it is 1,112 feet deep.
The Great Blue Hole in Belize, Guatemala was formed in May 2010 after a big rain that came with Storm Agatha.
Murge area is a city in southern Italy.
It faces the risk of sinkhole activity.
The Boesmansgat is a sinkhole in South Africa and Lake Kashiba in Zambia.
Mount Gambier, in South Australia, is home to a sinkhole.
In Croatia, there is a popular sinkhole called Red Lake.
It is about 1,740 feet deep, and its walls are almost vertical.
Almost half of the sinkhole is a lake.
There is the possibility of a sinkhole forming anywhere, be it on land or in water.
Anywhere one sinkhole forms, others will form with time.
The Best Place to Live in Florida to Avoid Sinkholes
Looking to settle down in the Sunshine State but want to keep your feet on solid ground?
Here are some fantastic Florida locations that can help you avoid those pesky sinkholes while adding a dash of sunshine to your life.
1.
Coral Gables: Picture yourself strolling through the charming streets of Coral Gables, lined with majestic banyan trees and elegant Mediterranean-style homes.
This upscale city in Miami-Dade County boasts an impressively low sinkhole incident rate of only 0.03%.
So go ahead and enjoy the tranquility of this oasis while sipping on a Cuban cafecito.
2.
Jupiter: Set your sights on Jupiter, a coastal gem that offers more than just celestial beauty.
Located in Palm Beach County, this vibrant city is famous for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and frequent celebrity sightings.
And the best part?
Jupiter has a sinkhole occurrence rate of only 0.04%, ensuring that your Floridian dreams won’t be swallowed up by unexpected earthy surprises.
3.
Naples: If you’re seeking a place where sinkholes are rarer than finding a perfectly intact seashell, Naples is the perfect fit.
Situated on the Paradise Coast of Southwest Florida, Naples beckons with its luxurious waterfront estates, championship golf courses, and white sandy beaches.
With a mere 0.02% sinkhole incident rate, you can enjoy the Gulf of Mexico’s azure waters without worrying about the ground beneath you giving way.
4.
Palm Beach: Prepare to immerse yourself in the lap of luxury in the glamorous enclave of Palm Beach.
This elite community, located in Palm Beach County, is synonymous with opulence, high-end shopping, and pristine beaches.
Surprisingly, it also boasts a relatively low 0.05% sinkhole incident rate.
So while you rub elbows with the rich and famous, you can rest assured that the ground beneath your designer shoes remains stable.
5.
Sarasota: Imagine living in a cultural hotspot that’s also resistant to sinkholes.
Welcome to Sarasota, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
This vibrant city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, including the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Sarasota Opera.
With a sinkhole occurrence rate of just 0.06%, you can soak up the sun on Siesta Key Beach or enjoy a performance at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, knowing that your solid ground won’t suddenly crumble away.
Remember, while these locations historically exhibit lower sinkhole incident rates, mother Nature can still surprise us.
But with these sinkhole-resistant options, you can relish Florida’s warm climate, coastal beauty, and vibrant culture, all while minimizing the chances of encountering a geological rollercoaster ride.
Cheers to a safe and solid Floridian adventure!
Sinkholes FAQs
How many people died in Florida from sinkholes?
There have been six recorded sinkhole-related deaths in the history of Florida.
The most significant was the death of Jeffrey Bush.
He was sleeping in his bedroom when a 20-feet sinkhole struck and took him underground.
His dead body is yet to be found.
How can you detect a sinkhole?
It can be difficult to detect a sinkhole before it happens, but there are some warning signs to look out for.
These signs include cracks in walls or floors, sinking or uneven ground, depressions in the ground, and doors or windows that suddenly become difficult to close.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to seek professional help right away.
An engineer or geologist can assess the situation and determine whether there’s a risk of a sinkhole forming.
How Can Sinkholes be Prevented?
Sinkholes are a natural occurrence, and it’s impossible to prevent them from forming entirely.
However, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of sinkhole-related damage.
One way to reduce the risk of sinkholes is to avoid over-pumping groundwater.
Over-pumping can cause the ground to sink and collapse, leading to sinkholes.
Additionally, proper land use planning can help prevent sinkholes by avoiding construction on areas with a history of sinkhole activity.
Are sinkholes covered by insurance?
In Florida, sinkholes are covered by insurance, but the coverage can vary.
Some policies only cover “catastrophic ground cover collapse,” which means the ground must have collapsed entirely, and the house or structure must be uninhabitable.
Other policies cover “sinkhole damage,” which includes any substantial structural damage caused by sinkholes.
It’s essential to check your insurance policy carefully and understand what it covers before a sinkhole strikes.
Can sinkholes form anywhere?
While sinkholes are most common in areas with limestone or other porous rock formations, they can technically form anywhere.
In fact, sinkholes have been reported in all 50 states in the United States.
However, the risk of sinkholes forming is higher in areas with soluble rock, such as limestone, that can dissolve over time.
So, if you live in an area with limestone or other porous rock formations, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions.
What should I do if a sinkhole appears on my property?
If you notice a sinkhole forming on your property, the first thing to do is to evacuate the area and keep people and pets away.
Then, contact your local government or emergency services, who can send an expert to assess the situation.
It’s crucial not to attempt to fill in the sinkhole yourself, as this can be dangerous and may cause further damage.
A professional will be able to determine the cause of the sinkhole and recommend the best course of action.
Can sinkholes be repaired?
Yes, sinkholes can be repaired, but the method used will depend on the severity of the damage.
For minor sinkholes, filling the hole with soil or concrete may be sufficient.
However, for more severe sinkholes, a process called grouting may be necessary.
Grouting involves injecting a mixture of cement and water into the ground to fill in gaps and stabilize the soil.
This process can be expensive, but it’s essential to repair sinkholes quickly to prevent further damage.
What are the long-term effects of a sinkhole?
The long-term effects of a sinkhole can be severe, depending on the size and location of the sinkhole.
Sinkholes can cause structural damage to buildings and homes, making them unsafe to live in.
Additionally, sinkholes can disrupt the local ecosystem by altering water flow and causing erosion.
Sinkholes can also have a significant economic impact, as they can damage infrastructure and reduce property values.
Is it safe to live in an area with sinkholes?
Living in an area with sinkholes is not necessarily unsafe, but it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions.
If you live in an area with a history of sinkhole activity, it’s important to have your property assessed regularly to identify any potential risks.
Additionally, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage to protect your property in the event of a sinkhole.
By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of damage and ensure that you’re prepared in case a sinkhole does occur.
