NJ Sinkholes: Drought and Quake Spark Fears

Concerns are mounting in Wharton, New Jersey, following the emergence of massive sinkholes, particularly near residential areas and major roadways. The New Jersey Department of Transportation indicated that a combination of drought conditions over the past two years and a recent 4.8-magnitude earthquake likely destabilized subterranean abandoned mines. This instability is believed to be the primary cause of the sinkholes, including one that opened on I-80.

Residents like Elliana Dividu expressed significant fear for their safety, especially after noticing cracks in their apartment building, which is located just a few hundred feet from a sinkhole site. Dividu relocated her family due to the perceived risk and lack of clear information. Despite the community's anxieties and multiple sinkhole incidents dating back to 2000, local officials and the property developer have not responded to inquiries.

A geotechnical engineer noted that while stabilization methods exist, the sudden appearance of sinkholes after decades is puzzling. The developer maintains their property is safe, citing an engineering report that found no issues and attributing reported cracks to the building's age. However, the developer declined to share monitoring reports.