Giant Sinkholes Endanger Buriticupu, Brazil

Buriticupu, a town of 55,000 in Brazil’s Amazon, faces growing sinkholes, locally called “voçoroca,” up to 20 meters deep.

Over 30 years, erosion-prone sandy soil, poor urban planning, and deforestation have worsened the issue, with heavy rains accelerating expansion since late 2024.

A single sinkhole consumed three streets and 50+ homes in a decade.

Authorities evacuated 1,200 people, declared a state of emergency on February 11, 2025, and cancelled a carnival to focus on aid, but lack resources to stop the crisis.