Preedee TeoOn Thursday, 26 Sep 2024, a large sinkhole, measuring 30 meters wide and 1 meter deep, appeared in Hiroshima, Japan, causing a section of the road to collapse and several buildings in the area to lean. The incident occurred around 8.50am local time (7.50am Singapore time).
Also read: Singaporean Cuisine Comes to Japan on a Sightseeing Train
Massive sinkhole opens up in Hiroshima
Image credit: kaeru_keirin | Twitter
According to local reports, police received an emergency call regarding a road anomaly that had developed in an area in the city’s Nishi Ward. Investigations revealed that an underground water pipe had likely burst, resulting in the road caving in and trapping several people inside nearby buildings.
Fortunately, all trapped individuals were successfully rescued by the city fire department. However, cracks were reported in some of the buildings which led to local authorities evacuating the residents in some of the affected areas as a precautionary measure.
Ongoing sinkhole phenomenon around the world
Image credit: (L-R) Kementerian Kerja Raya Malaysia | Official Facebook; China Times | Official Website
This sinkhole incident in Hiroshima is not unique to the ongoing sinkhole phenomenon. It is the latest in a series of such occurrences worldwide this year. Just a day before, a 5.4-meter wide sinkhole opened up in Kuala Lumpur, near the entrance of the Bunga Raya Complex for VIP passengers at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
In the month of August alone, there were three separate occasions when sinkholes appeared in other countries:
- 23 Aug 2024: A 48-year-old Indian woman fell into a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur, and despite a nine-day search operation, her body was not recovered due to safety concerns.
- 29 Aug 2024: Additionally, a sinkhole appeared in the middle of a road in Seoul, South Korea, causing a car to fall in and injuring two elderly people.
- 31 Aug 2024: A sinkhole emerged in Douliu, Taiwan. Authorities reported zero injuries.
Also read: Japan Autumn 2024 Forecast: When and Where to See
The recent sinkhole incidents in Hiroshima, Japan and other countries highlight the unpredictable nature of sinkholes and the potential risks they pose to infrastructure and personal safety. In times of uncertainty, travellers should take note of the safety precaution. In doing so, they can better prepare themselves for situations that put their well-being at risk. One less worry is one more step towards a memorable holiday adventure. Stay safe, and happy travels!
Featured image credit: kaeru_keirin | Twitter
Facebook featured image credit: (L-R) Chugoku Shimbun; kaeru_keirin | Twitter
