Sinkholes Popping Up In Palmyra & Lebanon An Ongoing Problem
Within Palmyra and Lebanon county there have been a large number of sinkholes appearing over the past few years. While historically Palmyra is known for sinkholes it seems like their frequency has increased.
Sinkholes have closed roadways down as well as caused major damage to the foundation of homes in the Palmyra area. What is causing all of these sinkholes and what can be done to manage them and the damage they cause?
What Causes Sinkholes In Palmyra?
The first cause of sinkholes in Palmyra is what is under the ground. The foundation that is found throughout Pennsylvania consists of soil and stone that can easily be dissolved by water. Once the water erodes away from the ground it will eventually collapse and a sinkhole will form.
There are three types of sinkholes that can develop in Palmyra:
- Solution Sinkholes: The area is exposed and progressively erodes away as it is exposed to the rain and water. This can occur quickly or slowly
- Cover Collapse Sinkholes: These are the types of sinkholes that make the news. Suddenly the land or cover collapses into a hole exposing the gaping cavern below. A sinkhole that collapses typically shows sudden danger while the others are progressive and visible.
- Cover Subsidence Sinkholes: This type of sinkhole is a cross between the first two. Small collapses occur as the ground dissolves and erode away.
Palmyra is on top of a large limestone deposits. This limestone dissolves and erodes away easily from the rain. Due to this, the sinkholes are to be expected, but why has their frequency increased?
Floodings Impact On Sinkholes In Palmyra
In some of our recent articles about flooding, we have shared how flood zones have changed in the county of Lebanon. The flood zones have changed and been updated due to a larger amount of areas being susceptible to flooding. This directly impacts the number of sinkholes appearing.
As water sits or is forced to different locations from development and growth in the area, there is a higher likelihood of sinkholes forming. While the amount of water might not increase, the amount of water over specific areas has increased. The flooding changes result in increases in erosion.
Long Term Effects Of Sinkholes In Palmyra
In Palmyra, you can expect sinkholes to continue and increase in frequency. As they continue, the cost for sinkhole insurance could increase based on your location at the epicenter of dissolving limestone. Taxes will probably increase to maintain the infrastructure of the area, specifically repairing route 422 and other roadways that have sinkholes appear.
How Can You Protect Your Home From Sinkholes
The first and most important step to protecting your home from sinkholes is getting sinkhole insurance. “Oh don’t worry, I have home insurance so my house is safe.” Homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover sinkhole insurance. Sinkhole insurance is a separate coverage you have to add to your home. Make sure you have coverage on your home for sinkhole damage.
Contact Strickler Insurance For Sinkhole Insurance
Get a free quote on sinkhole insurance from a local insurance company that can handle your needs effectively. Our team is ready to assess your home and home insurance needs. If you are in an area susceptible to sinkholes we will recommend sinkhole insurance to protect your home from future sinkholes. Learn more today.
