A sinkhole has appeared in rural Puebla since May 29 and is continuing to expand, potentially swallowing nearby homes.
When the Sanchez family heard a loud noise outside their window last Saturday, they thought it was thunder. However, when they stepped outside to investigate, they were shocked to see a large area of land had collapsed just a few meters from their house, in a field in the town of Santa Maria Zacatepec in Puebla state, central Mexico.
As the sinkhole expands, large chunks of earth continuously break away from its edge.
By Sunday, the sinkhole, which was filled with water, measured approximately 30 meters wide. It quickly expanded to 60 meters by Monday and 80 meters by Tuesday, posing a significant danger to the Sanchez family’s home, as they feared losing everything.
“We have nothing. We are not from here. We have no relatives. We are all alone,” said homeowner Heriberto Sanchez, who hails from Veracruz in southeastern Mexico, to the media.
Scientists and authorities are considering several theories, including geological activity or changes in soil moisture content, which may be causing the sinkhole.
As the sinkhole continues to grow, large chunks of earth are continuously breaking away from its edge. Local authorities recently had to use security tape to cordon off the sinkhole to prevent people from approaching.
“The sinkhole may continue to expand until the water stops exerting pressure. This is determined by nature. What is important now is public safety,” said Puebla Governor Miguel Barbosa. Authorities have stated they will provide financial assistance to those affected.
The massive sinkhole appears right next to residential homes in Mexico. (Video: AFP).
