A massive sinkhole has opened up in a Surrey neighborhood in England, forcing residents to evacuate their homes. The sinkhole, located on Godstone High Street, first appeared on Monday night and has grown to at least 65 feet deep.
The village is approximately 20 miles south of London and all residents have been accounted for and are safe. Experts believe that the sinkhole may be caused by a ruptured water main, citing local geology and former land use as contributing factors.
Surrey County Council officials evacuated the area out of caution due to concerns about collapsing streets and structures, which could lead to explosions if pipes burst. SES Water, the utility company serving the area, has since restored supplies to customers after a successful overnight restoration effort.
However, SES Water advised customers that there may be discoloration, changes in taste or odor in the water due to potential disturbance of sediment in the water mains. The company assured there are no health risks associated with drinking this water and will work to meet the needs of evacuated customers.
Resident Tracey Jones described the situation as an “absolute nightmare,” while expert Philip Collins attributed the sinkhole’s size to the local geology and former land use. Officials from Surrey County Council, SES Water, and a Local Resilience Forum are working together to ensure public safety and restore services.
Source: https://people.com/giant-65-foot-sinkhole-swallows-up-street-residents-evacuated-11683094