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Geological, Geophysical and Hydrological Controls on Sinkhole Formation in Saudi Arabia: Linking Karst Processes to Anthropogenic Impacts

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Abstract:

This study addresses the increasing occurrence of sinkholes in northern and eastern Saudi Arabia, driven by soluble karst geology and unsustainable groundwater extraction. The primary objective is to understand the underlying mechanism of sinkhole formation and propose targeted mitigation strategies. By integrating geological, geophysical (ERT, GPR, microgravity), and hydrological data from previous studies, the research identifies key subsurface features and groundwater conditions contributing to sinkhole development. The results reveal that sinkhole formation is primarily governed by cover-collapse processes, strongly associated with aquifer over-extraction, low-resistivity anomalies, and irrigation-induced saturation. Groundwater declines of 2.5–3 m/year, along with acidic and saline conditions, further accelerate karst dissolution. The study concludes with a three-part mitigation framework: sustainable groundwater management, engineered stabilization of high-risk cavities, and an integrated early-warning system using geophysical monitoring and InSAR. These findings offer a practical roadmap for managing sinkhole hazards in arid karst environments.

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Periodical:

Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 935)

Pages:

277-283

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-T4nklJ

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Online since:

April 2026

Authors:

Ayman N. Qadrouh, Samiya Alkhairy, Khalid S. Aldamegh*, Mansour Alotaibi, Saleh S. Esshily, Abdulrhman H. Alghamdi, Mazen M. Alyousif

Keywords:

Geohazard, Groundwater, Hydrology, Karst, Sinkhole

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© 2026 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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