Large sinkhole in Daisetta starts growing 15 years after appearing, Texas

The Daisetta sinkhole, dormant for 15 years, started growing again on April 2, 2023, putting residents and officials on alert. The town, with a population of less than 1 000 people, is located approximately 89 km (55 miles) northeast of Houston. There are about 100 homes located in the immediate area.

The sinkhole appeared in 2008, growing to 275 meters (900 feet) wide and 79 meters (260 feet) deep in just two days, swallowing trees and structures.

The ground started cracking and the earth began disappearing gradually on April 2. Since then, the sinkhole has expanded by approximately 45 m (150 feet) in both width and depth.

Local residents, like Jordana Priessler and Linda Hoover, shared their fears with KTRK, mentioning that they are worried about their homes and lives being in danger and have had trouble sleeping as a result.

Daisetta sits on top of a salt dome, and it is unclear when the sinkhole will stop expanding if it continues on this path, reports Bluebonnet News. The growing pit is just 24.4 meters (80 feet) away from a major roadway, FM 770, which runs through the heart of the town.

Local officials have reached out to the United States Geological Survey for assistance, as per Bluebonnet News.

References:

¹ Giant Texas sinkhole grows larger again in Daisetta, 15 years after it opened up – KTRK – April 4, 2023

² Huge sinkhole is growing, putting Texas residents on edge. ‘We have packed our bags’ – The Charlotte Observer – April 4, 2023

Featured image credit: Google (2023)