Abstract
Sinkholes are global phenomena with significant consequences on the natural- and built environment. Significant efforts have been devoted to the assessment of sinkhole hazards to predict the spatial and temporal occurrence of future sinkholes as well as to detect small-scale deformation prior to collapse. Sinkhole hazard maps are created by considering the distribution of past sinkholes in conjunction with their geomorphic features, controlling conditions and triggering mechanisms. Quantitative risk assessment then involves the statistical analysis of sinkhole events in relation to these conditions with the aim of identifying high risk areas. Remote sensing techniques contribute to the field of sinkhole hazard assessment by providing tools for the population of sinkhole inventories and lend themselves to the monitoring of precursory deformation prior to sinkhole development. In this paper, we outline the background to sinkhole formation and sinkhole hazard assessment. We provide a review of earth observation techniques, both for the compilation of sinkhole inventories as well as the monitoring of precursors to sinkhole development. We discuss the advantages and limitations of these approaches and conclude by highlighting the potential role of radar interferometry in the early detection of sinkhole-induced instability resulting in a potential decrease in the risk to human lives and infrastructure by enabling proactive remediation.
Highlights
IntroductionMany regions around the globe are characterised by the presence of highly soluble calcium carbonate (dolomite or limestone) or evaporite (typically halite or gypsum) rocks [1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
Introduction to Sinkhole HazardsMany regions around the globe are characterised by the presence of highly soluble calcium carbonate or evaporite rocks [1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
These areas are frequently associated with sudden, catastrophic collapse of the surface in a process known as sinkhole development
Summary
Many regions around the globe are characterised by the presence of highly soluble calcium carbonate (dolomite or limestone) or evaporite (typically halite or gypsum) rocks [1,2,3,4,5,6,7] These areas are frequently associated with sudden, catastrophic collapse of the surface in a process known as sinkhole development. In many sinkhole prone regions, population growth as well as social and political drivers force communities to settle in areas characterised by the presence of sinkhole hazards [10,11] In such instances, risk avoidance measures, like prohibiting development of any kind, is not feasible [1]. Sinkholes have caused environmental problems, especially in cases where they change the local hydrology, potentially draining streams, rivers and dams [8,9,17]
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