Volusia County Sinkhole, FL

Central Florida’s unique geology brings natural risks due to its limestone-rich landscapes. The Florida Geological Survey’s 2008 sinkhole map shows 58 documented incidents in Volusia County. These incidents are mostly near DeLand, Deltona, and Daytona Beach.

These areas have unstable terrain because of porous bedrock and shifting groundwater. Karst landscapes, with dissolved carbonate rock layers, are common here. When water levels drop or acidic rain erodes these layers, underground cavities collapse.

This collapse creates sudden depressions, from small pits to massive craters. These craters can swallow entire properties.

Data from the Florida Center for Instructional Technology shows human activity speeds up subsidence in vulnerable zones. Construction and groundwater pumping destabilize these delicate systems. For example, Deltona’s rapid growth has led to more incidents in the 1990s.

It’s important to understand the difference between natural sinkholes and human-induced ground collapses. Both are risky, but prevention strategies vary. The 2008 dataset is key for mapping high-risk areas and guiding land-use policies in the county.

Recent & Notable Sinkhole Incidents / Case Studies

Hurricane Milton hit Volusia County FL in October 2024. It caused three big sinkholes, showing how vulnerable our infrastructure is. These sinkholes happened at the storm’s strongest point, showing the dangers of local geology.

• U.S. 17-92 Roadway Collapse: A 40-foot hole opened up on the highway near the West Volusia Dream Center. It took six weeks to fix. This made it hard for people in Deltona and Orange City to get around.
• Threadgill Place Subsidence: The ground gave way next to Lowe’s, moving 12 homes. Tests found a 25-foot hole under the street.
• Tremont Drive Washouts: Water from Big Lots eroded the limestone, making three sinkholes 180 feet long.

Between 2004 and 2023, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection found 42 sinkholes in Volusia County. Most were in Deltona and DeBary. They have a map to help people find sinkhole information by ZIP code and year.

After the 2024 sinkholes, experts said they were caused by old stormwater systems. These systems let too much water into the ground. Now, the county is making roads and highways safer from sinkholes.

Risk Factors & What Homeowners Should Do

Residents in Volusia County FL face higher risks of sinkholes. This is because of the area’s soluble limestone bedrock and changes in groundwater. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) says to watch for foundation cracks, sudden yard depressions, and structural tilts. These are signs that need quick action.

Homeowners should check their properties every three months. Look at exterior walls, pool decks, and plumbing systems. FDEP suggests taking photos and using checklists to track changes. Also, make sure to manage stormwater to avoid soil erosion. Keep downspouts away from foundations and fix pavement cracks fast.

When you notice doors or windows are off, it could mean subsidence. Volusia County has a database for certified engineering firms. It’s also important to check your home insurance. Make sure it covers sinkhole damage, as many policies don’t unless you add it.

The FDEP has a system for reporting sinkholes. It lets you share details and see hazard maps. Volusia County’s portal shows sinkhole history and groundwater levels. By being proactive and using these tools, you can reduce risks and protect your home.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Sinkholemaps.com Team

We are a team passionate about providing sinkhole related information to the public.

Latest posts by Sinkholemaps.com Team (see all)

• Wayne County Sinkhole KY - September 29, 2025
• Woodford County Sinkhole KY - September 29, 2025
• Washington County Sinkhole KY - September 29, 2025