The seismic activity of the Popocatépetl volcano is not related to the formation of the sinkhole in Santa María Zacatepec, according to members of the UNAM Geology Institute.
During the conference “Let’s talk about sinkholes and other geological phenomena“, Dr. Ramón Espinasa Perela explained the geological conditions of the area where the sinkhole is located.
According to Dr. Espinasa, the Santa María Zacatepec ground has been formed by volcanic material emitted in the last 30 thousand years.
Due to this, the current seismic and volcanic activity of the Popocatépetl is not to blame for the formation of the sinkhole, the characteristics of the land itself are the likely culprit.
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The near future of what may happen with the sinkhole is uncertain, and therefore, monitoring must continue, says the geologist.
“Things can be done to prevent the sinkhole from evolving, for example, the slopes can be stabilized. However, they are extremely expensive procedures and it would be necessary to make sure if the land around the sinkhole is worth saving”, said Dr. Espinasa.
He believes filling the sinkhole with soil or rocks is not an option because the water will continue to erode. So, the observation of this phenomenon must carry on.
Since last July 17, the sinkhole has been fenced to prevent people or animals from approaching the area, as it is considered an unstable space.
The latest report from the State Civil Protection said that the sinkhole measures 122 meters on its longest side and 126 on its shortest side and no diameter growth has been reported for more than three weeks.
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This is how it was lived
(In Spanish) With geologists Ramón Espinasa, Jesús Aceves, Sergio Rodríguez, Antonio López, Paul Rene and Wendy Morales.
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POB/PCL
