Large sinkhole opens up in South Wales as residents told to stay away

A large sinkhole has appeared on a housing estate in South Wales, with the local council warning residents to stay away from the area.

The opening spans a few metres in front of a home in Nant Morlais, Pant, near Merthyr Tydfil, swallowing the entire footpath and a chunk of the road.

The road was closed on Sunday while officers from the council and police investigated.

Merthyr Tydfil Council said: "Council officers and police have been on-site at Nant Morlais, Pant, all morning working with other agencies at the site of a sinkhole.

"No further help or support is needed at this time but thank you to everyone who has offered it. Safety is our main priority.

"To allow engineers to keep working safely, please stay away from the area."

It's not clear what caused this sinkhole, but there are several factors that could explain their formation across the UK.

According to the British Geological Survey (BGS), sinkholes can form after heavy rain or flooding that causes the collapse of normally stable cavities beneath the surface.

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Leaking drain pipes or burst water mains are also a potential trigger, while mining is also known to be a factor.

The group pinpoints northeast England as the most susceptible area in the UK, but parts of Wales, the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales are also vulnerable.

(c) Sky News 2024: Large sinkhole opens up in South Wales as residents told to stay away