Giant sinkhole splits ground in central region of Portugal

April 11, 2013 – PORTUGAL – Excess water in the soil may be the cause of geological phenomenon occurred in Marvão in Alto Alentejo, which resulted in the opening of a crater about 100 meters deep and 17 meters in diameter. The geologist Victor Lambert explained this Tuesday that this is “a typical phenomenon” of areas where there is limestone and soil conditions exist, though in Portugal nothing has appeared of this size.” The geologist, who develops work for research institutions and ornamental rocks, reported in the local area that has Marvão caves and type of existing rock (limestone) tends to ‘dissolve,’ forming caves. “Here in Marvão, we had lots of rain a year. The water in these structures infiltrates, circulating inside, and in lime, circulates at high speeds, ie, the impact may cause is greater,” explained. However, the geologist pointed out that the crater in Marvão is interesting, because of the size and depth and’ three small holes,” but was keen to stress that this case is not an incident of aliens. The massive hole opened up on private property near the village of Porto da Espada, where another smaller crater has also formed. Authorities have erected barricaded around the massive crater for safety concerns. Speaking to Lusa, Mario Gallego, the tenant of the property where the phenomenon occurred, said he was “surprised” by the situation and considered it “scary.” The Mayor of Marvão, Victor Frutuoso, told Lusa that the council wants to know the ‘impacts’ that the incident will have on the environment. “We have to know the impact this might have in terms of stability with respect to property that is accessed by people. Therefore, we have to control a number of situations in terms of security and realize what the consequences are for transportation concerns,” he said. With a security perimeter created and with elements of the GNR in place, the area has been subject to visits by locals who are curious to see the geological phenomenon firsthand. –TVI24  (translated)

contribution by Manuel