Massive Sinkhole Opens in Hernando County, Threatening Homes Hernando County, Florida – A massive sinkhole has opened up in a residential area of Hernando County, threatening to swallow several homes. The sinkhole, which is approximately 100 feet wide and 50 feet deep, appeared suddenly on Friday behind a home on Pine Island Drive in the Spring Hill area. County officials have evacuated residents from three homes in the immediate vicinity of the sinkhole. Geotechnical engineers are on the scene assessing the situation and developing a plan to stabilize the area. “This is a very serious situation,” said Hernando County Emergency Management Director Michael Coulter. “We are working closely with residents and engineers to ensure the safety of the community.” Sinkholes are common in Florida due to the state’s limestone bedrock. When groundwater dissolves the limestone, it creates underground cavities that can eventually collapse, forming sinkholes. The sinkhole in Hernando County is particularly concerning because it is located in a populated area. The county has a history of sinkhole activity, including a massive sinkhole that swallowed an entire neighborhood in 2013. “We are urging residents to be aware of the potential for sinkholes and to report any signs of ground movement or water problems immediately,” Coulter said. The county is working to provide assistance to residents affected by the sinkhole. The Red Cross has set up a shelter for evacuated residents, and the county is providing financial assistance for those who need it. Officials are still investigating the cause of the sinkhole and are working to determine the best course of action to stabilize the area and prevent further damage.Massive Sinkhole Opens in Weeki WacheeMassive Sinkhole Opens in Weeki Wachee A colossal sinkhole has emerged on private property in Weeki Wachee, Hernando County, Florida. Residents have expressed concern over the sudden appearance of the giant void. “It’s alarming to see something like this in our backyard,” said Cadie Nowazzyk, a recent resident of Weeki Wachee. “We hope that lessons are learned from this and we don’t create more disasters in the future.” The sinkhole formation is attributed to the recent heavy rainfall that has plagued Florida, prompting Governor Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency in several counties. Hernando County officials have confirmed that the sinkhole is situated on private land. Investigation and mitigation efforts are ongoing. News Channel 8 continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available. Stay informed with the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video on the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.A massive hole has opened up in Hernando County, Florida, swallowing a portion of a road and threatening nearby homes. The hole, which is approximately 100 feet wide and 50 feet deep, appeared suddenly on Thursday morning in the backyard of a home on Darby Road in Brooksville. “It was like a scene from a horror movie,” said homeowner Mark Smith. “I looked out my window and saw this huge hole where my backyard used to be.” County officials say the hole is the result of a sinkhole, which occurs when water dissolves the limestone bedrock beneath the surface. “Sinkholes are a common occurrence in Florida,” said Hernando County Emergency Management Director Dale Dampier. “But this is one of the largest we’ve seen in recent years.” The hole has caused significant damage to Darby Road, which has been closed to traffic. Several homes in the area have also been evacuated due to the risk of collapse. Geologists are currently on scene to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. “We’re taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of residents,” said Dampier. “We’re working to stabilize the hole and prevent it from expanding.” Residents are urged to avoid the area and to contact the county’s emergency hotline if they have any concerns.