A growing sinkhole that has engulfed most of a major intersection in Talmage, Pennsylvania has prompted West Earl Township supervisors to declare a disaster emergency on Thursday (February 6).
The sinkhole, which first appeared Tuesday following a water main break, has continued to expand after at least two additional water main breaks. It now covers most of the intersection at Route 772 and Locust Street, according to local officials.
"Some of the gentlemen behind me working on this project have never seen a sinkhole of this magnitude," West Earl Township Manager Jenna Reigle told reporters.
The emergency declaration gives township officials broader powers to address the crisis, including hiring temporary workers, renting equipment, purchasing supplies, and entering into contracts without the usual time-consuming procedures. These measures are deemed necessary to "protect the health, safety and welfare of affected residents," according to the township's social media post.
The sinkhole has grown to approximately 80 feet in size, based on reports from excavation crews working at the site. Route 772, which serves approximately 12,000 drivers daily according to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation data, is expected to remain closed until at least Friday, February 13.
Residents in the Talmage area first reported issues late Monday night when they lost running water. While water service was restored Wednesday evening, the area remains under a boil water advisory until further notice. The advisory impacts all water customers on Locust and Evergreen streets and Stoltzfus, Marlou, Elizabeth and Louise avenues, as well as customers on South State Street south of Stone Quarry Road.
Local fire officials have urged drivers to avoid the area if possible and to prepare for traffic delays along detour routes. Several crashes have been reported along the detour since the road closure began.
Crews have been working continuously to fill the sinkhole since Tuesday, though township officials estimate it could take until the end of next week to completely resolve the situation.