The Salaspils sinkhole, recently formed and notably without any casualties, is a focal point of discussion regarding geological hazards in Latvia. According to experts, this sinkhole is significant as it developed suddenly, which is a concern for public safety. The depth of the sinkhole is approximately eight meters, with a diameter of about five meters, and there have been even deeper sinkholes observed in other regions of Latvia, such as Skaistkalne, which can exceed 20 to 30 meters in depth.

Karst sinkholes arise due to a geological process in which groundwater dissolves soluble rocks, such as limestone and gypsum, creating voids underground that can eventually lead to surface collapse. This phenomenon poses a crucial geological hazard in Latvia, as highlighted by Professor Dēliņa. The process typically involves the erosion of rocks, which, when weakened beyond capacity, can no longer support the overlaying earth, resulting in a sinkhole.

While most karst sinkholes are triggered by underground water flows, they can also be initiated by surface water. This insight into their formation sheds light on the necessity for monitoring natural geological processes to potentially mitigate future risks. The article emphasizes the importance of awareness around these geological features and their implications for local communities, underscoring a blend of natural curiosity and public safety concerns in the context of Latvia's changing landscape.