A large sinkhole opened up on Interstate 75 just north of Williston Road on Friday afternoon, forcing the closure of two lanes and snarling traffic for miles.
The sinkhole, which was estimated to be at least 15 feet wide and possibly 12 feet deep, is on the west shoulder of the roadway at Mile Marker 382. It started out as a small depression around 4:30 p.m. and grew quickly, officials say.
Deputies from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office quickly arrived at the scene and were soon joined by Florida Highway Patrol troopers. The left lane near the sinkhole remains open, but traffic is backed up as the center and outside lanes are closed. FHP troopers are encouraging motorists to avoid the area if possible.