Sinkholes in Pennsylvania

A common sinkhole; click for larger image (95 KB) and more information.

“What are sinkholes? A farmer may view them as naturally forming holes that occasionally open up in the fields. Some people see sinkholes as sites for dumping trash. In urban areas, the sudden appearance of a sinkhole is a hazard that can disrupt utility services, hamper transportation, and cause severe damage to nearby structures. In anyone's backyard, a sinkhole is a safety risk to the curious who may find it exciting to explore this new “cave.” Information about sinkholes in Pennsylvania is pertinent to planning for future land development and for the protection of private and public property. It also provides a fascinating story for those who are interested in learning more about geologic conditions and earth processes.” — From Educational Series 11, Sinkholes in Pennsylvania*

Data on sinkholes

For on-line data, see our Sinkhole Inventory and Online Database.

Open-file reports have been developed by Survey geologist William E. Kochanov for specific counties in Pennsylvania. See our on-line listing of open-file reports for details like cost and how to order these reports.

Map 70 – Density of Mapped Karst Features in Centre County, Pennsylvania is a 2005 publication that interprets the density of karst features in Centre County.

Map 68 – Density of Mapped Karst Features in South-Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania is a 2003 publication that interprets the density of karst features across 14 counties in southeastern Pennsylvania.

A few notable sinkholes:

1979	1986	1994

Click on the photos for larger images.

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