Photo: Alex Milan / iStock / Getty Images
Pasco County, FL - A major section of Clock Tower Parkway in Pasco County is closed after a large depression formed near the intersection with Majestic Boulevard in Bayonet Point.
The hole, estimated to be about 25 feet wide and 5 feet deep, appeared early Thursday morning around 6 a.m., prompting officials to block the area with barricades and road closure signs.
Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa said the depression is likely caused by natural geological processes.
The shift from the rainy season to drier conditions can cause the underlying limestone to collapse, leading to surface depressions.
Officials noted there may be an additional collapse roughly 40 feet below the road surface.
The closed roadway serves as a main route for local residents, emergency services, and school buses.
Officials have advised drivers to use alternate routes while the area is secured.
Fossa emphasized that the depression could grow deeper or wider, and the county is monitoring the situation closely.
A geotechnical firm has been brought in to conduct ground-penetrating radar scans to assess the subsurface conditions.
County authorities plan a temporary repair for the eastbound lane on Friday, though the lane will remain closed for an undetermined period as further work continues.
Residents in the area have expressed concern over access and potential safety risks.
The county has implemented an adjusted traffic pattern to help drivers navigate around the closure.
Officials are urging residents to avoid the area whenever possible and to follow updates through official channels.