Warning: Sinkholes emerge in Mae Hong Son after earthquake
In a startling post-earthquake discovery, six sinkholes have appeared in Mae Hong Son’s Khun Yuam district, leaving locals on edge. The sudden appearance of these giant holes has prompted a warning from the Mineral Resources Regional Office 1, advising residents to exercise extreme caution.
The sinkholes, which range in size from 2 to 30 metres in diameter, were first discovered between March 29 and 30 on an agricultural plot in Ban Mae Surin village. The holes have shown no sign of slowing down, with continuous subsidence and expansion.
These sinkholes are located along a north-south line, following the active Mae Hong Son fault line, indicating that the region is still highly unstable.
The soil in the affected areas is a mix of clay and sand, causing the water pooled in the sinkholes to appear murky. The mouths of the sinkholes have a distinct conical shape, which points to a vertical collapse of the soil layers into underground voids.
According to the office, the sinkholes were triggered by the seismic vibrations from the recent earthquake, which caused rapid fluctuations in groundwater levels.
These fluctuations altered the pressure within the underground voids, leading to soil erosion and, eventually, the collapse of the ground above.
As the underground voids expanded, the weight of the soil above became too much for the thinning roof of the voids to support, resulting in the formation of the sinkholes, reported The Nation.
To mitigate the risk, the Mineral Resources Regional Office 1 has issued several urgent recommendations for the local population:
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Fencing and Signage: The area around the sinkholes should be fenced off to keep people and pets at a safe distance. Warning signs should be installed to alert passersby.
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Ground Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring and tracking of ground subsidence are necessary, as cracks are still visible in the area.
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Avoid Chemical Use: Residents are advised to refrain from applying fertiliser or pesticides in the area until the sinkholes are filled to avoid groundwater contamination.
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Geophysical Survey: A geophysical survey of the underground is recommended to assess the extent of the problem and develop ways to prevent further collapse.
Local officials urge local agencies and the community to stay informed about the causes of the sinkholes and the necessary steps to prevent further damage. As the situation continues to evolve, the authorities are determined to find a solution to ensure the safety of residents and protect local resources.
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