A possible sinkhole forced several condominiums to evacuate Sunday in Seminole County.

The hole opened at the Oasis at Pearl Lakes in Altamonte Springs, near the intersection of State Roads 436 and 434.

As of Monday, the hole was still classified as a "possible sinkhole," because only a geologist can declare if it is a true sinkhole.

Public safety officials said Monday they were concerned the hole may grow in size because of all the rain Central Florida has received in recent days.

According to Seminole County Fire Rescue, six apartments had to be evacuated Sunday after the hole opened up Sunday afternoon close to the foundation of a building.

As of Monday afternoon, the hole was approximately 10 feet wide and about 10–15 feet deep. People who have seen it up close described it as a deep pit without any dirt inside.

Investigators said they did not believe the building sustained any structural damage, but safety officials have taped off the area, in case the hole gets any bigger.


(John W. Davis, Staff)

For now, residents who were evacuated from their homes were able to stay with friends or family members.

There was no immediate word on when crews would be able to fill in the possible sinkhole.