KHON KAEN, Thailand – Residents of Ban Wang Charoen Moo 2, Huai Muang Subdistrict, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen Province have been left alarmed after seven large sinkholes suddenly appeared across farmland, prompting authorities to restrict access and prepare to declare the area a disaster zone. The sinkholes, each measuring several meters in width and depth, were discovered across agricultural areas, raising concerns over further ground collapses. Officials are preparing an emergency declaration to allow faster assistance and safety measures for affected residents.
Geologists who inspected the site said the phenomenon was linked to movement and shifting of tectonic plates, which affected underground rock structures. Existing fractures beneath the surface may have shifted, causing sections of the ground to collapse suddenly and form multiple sinkholes. Experts also warned local residents to stay away immediately if they notice bubbles rising from the ground or nearby water sources, as this could indicate changes beneath the surface and possible ground instability.
Authorities have now blocked off dangerous areas, installed warning signs and deployed teams to monitor the site and conduct further underground surveys around the clock. Residents have been urged not to enter restricted areas while officials continue assessing the risk of additional collapses.
