A major incident has been declared in Surrey after two large craters formed on Godstone High Street, with the first measuring 65 by 20 feet. Geologists suggest that the craters were likely caused by factors such as heavy rainfall or a burst water main, which may have compromised the weak sandstone bedrock in the area. While the holes have stabilized for now, approximately 30 residents have been evacuated due to safety concerns, highlighting ongoing worries about infrastructure stability amid increasing rainfall and potential climate impacts.
The first hole appeared on Godstone High Street on Monday night, and grew to 65 feet by 20 feet and 16 feet deep by Tuesday.
The cause is unclear, but geologists theorize that heavy rainfall or a burst pipe may have triggered a collapse of the weak sandstone bedrock.
Periods of intense rainfall, likely to become more common due to climate change, increase pressure on aging pipes, risking further collapses.
Residents from about 30 properties have had to evacuate, highlighting the potential dangers posed by the craters in the residential area.
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