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Questions and Answers
What is the most common factor that triggers a collapse?
What can happen to the space that was once supported by water during a drought?
What can be the result of a sudden heavy rain?
What is often the location of collapses triggered by human activities?
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What is a common cause of sinkholes these days?
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What was the primary cause of the 2010 sinkhole in Guatemala City?
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What can you do to prepare for a potential sinkhole in an area where they have occurred before?
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What is the most effective way to prevent sinkholes caused by human activities?
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What was the tragic consequence of the 2010 Guatemala City sinkhole?
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What is a common characteristic of sinkholes caused by human activities?
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Study Notes
Triggers of Sinkholes
- Change in underground water levels is the most common factor that triggers a collapse
- During drought, underground water levels fall, causing the space that was once supported by the water to become weaker and collapse
- Rapid increase in surface water can also trigger a collapse, such as a sudden heavy rain adding to the weight of the surface soil
- Man-made activities can indirectly trigger sinkholes, including:
- Drilling
- Mining
- Construction
- Broken water pipes
- Heavy traffic
- Excessive use of groundwater
- Man-made causes of sinkholes can have dramatic effects, often occurring in populated areas such as streets and housing areas
Sinkholes in Urban Areas
- Recent sinkholes in urban areas have resulted in tragic accidents worldwide.
Guatemala City Sinkhole Incident
- In 2010, a 20m x 30m sinkhole opened up in Guatemala City, swallowing a three-story factory and killing 15 people.
- The sinkhole was caused by a combination of factors: tropical storm Agatha's surface water and leakage from a local waste water pipe.
Prevention of Sinkholes
- Naturally occurring sinkholes cannot be prevented.
- However, warning signs may appear, such as:
- Leaning trees
- Doors or windows that don't close properly
- Unusual rainwater collection spots
- Sinkholes caused by human carelessness can often be prevented through:
- Thorough soil testing prior to construction
- Maintaining underground water and plumbing systems
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Description
Learn about the factors that trigger cave collapses, including changes in underground water levels and rapid increases in surface water.
