Bowling Green, KY, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Bowling Green, Kentucky, is dealing with a significant increase in sinkholes following severe flooding in April. City officials have reported 24 sinkholes, with many requiring extensive repairs. The largest sinkhole reached 50 feet deep and has already cost over $200,000 to fill. As repair costs approach $900,000, the city is seeking aid from FEMA and warns residents of health risks associated with contaminated floodwaters. Ongoing monitoring is critical as more sinkholes may develop.
Bowling Green Faces Sinkhole Surge After April Flooding
Bowling Green, Kentucky, is experiencing a surge in sinkhole occurrences following significant flooding in early April. City officials report that the flooding has led to the emergence of dozens of sinkholes, with the total number currently identified standing at 24 within city limits.
Most of the sinkholes have been filled, but the challenges remain. The largest sinkhole, which appeared in resident Don Curtis’ backyard, reached a staggering depth of approximately 50 feet and required about 250 loads of rock to fill. The city’s Public Works team invested over $200,000 into repairing Curtis’ backyard, which is now close to being restored to its original state.
According to Bowling Green’s Public Works geologist, Nick Lawhon, 17 larger sinkholes needed repairs, a significant increase compared to the typical annual occurrence of 5 to 10 sinkholes. The current repair costs for all sinkholes in the city are anticipated to approach $900,000, far exceeding the usual annual budget for such repairs, which was increased from $100,000 to $200,000 this year due to flooding incidents.
The city’s Lover’s Lane Soccer Complex also sustained damages from multiple sinkholes, necessitating immediate repairs. Each sinkhole repair is expected to take about one to two weeks, with priority given to those posing the greatest danger to the public. Public Works Director Andy Souza indicated that more sinkholes may develop as groundwater continues to drain from the affected areas.
In light of the extensive damage, Bowling Green is seeking an emergency declaration from President Donald Trump for access to FEMA funds. Residents are urged to report any newly discovered sinkholes or hazardous road conditions directly to the city, as ongoing monitoring is key to addressing the evolving situation.
This recent flooding event resulted in the damage of over 20 roads, making them impassable. Key roadways particularly affected include Nashville Road, Louisville Road, and Russellville Road, along with several neighborhoods. Although there have been no reported fatalities, extensive property damage is anticipated, particularly in low-lying areas.
The stormwater and sewer systems in Bowling Green have been overwhelmed, raising concerns about health risks posed by contaminated floodwaters. City officials have cautioned residents to avoid contact with floodwaters due to the potential presence of raw sewage.
Furthermore, law enforcement agencies have announced that they will issue citations to individuals attempting to drive around road barriers during this emergency. The city continues to monitor the situation closely, anticipating ongoing sinkhole development as groundwater levels fluctuate.
Summary of Key Developments
- Bowling Green faces rising number of sinkholes due to early April flooding.
- A total of 24 sinkholes have been reported, with 17 requiring significant repairs.
- Repair costs are approaching $900,000, exceeding the annual budget.
- City officials are seeking aid from FEMA and encourage residents to report hazards.
- Floodwaters present health risks, and residents are warned to avoid contact.
FAQ
How many sinkholes have emerged in Bowling Green following the flooding?
A total of 24 sinkholes have been identified in Bowling Green as a result of the flooding.
What are the anticipated costs for repairs to the sinkholes?
Repair costs for all sinkholes are expected to reach around $900,000, significantly higher than the city’s usual annual budget for such projects.
What health risks are associated with the flooded areas?
The flooding has created risks associated with contaminated water, including the potential presence of raw sewage. Residents are advised to avoid all contact with floodwaters.
Key Features of the Flooding and Sinkhole Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Sinkholes | 24 |
| Largest Sinkhole Depth | 50 feet |
| Repair Costs | $900,000 |
| Annual Budget | $200,000 (increased from $100,000) |
| Damaged Roads | Over 20 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum News 1: Bowling Green Makes Sinkhole Repairs
- Wikipedia: Sinkhole
- WHAS11: Bowling Green Under State of Emergency
- Google Search: Bowling Green sinkholes
- BG Daily News: Sinkhole Updates
- Google Scholar: Sinkhole Flooding
- WBKO: Severe Flooding Causes Sinkholes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- WNKY: Bowling Green Turns Sinkhole City
- Google News: Bowling Green flooding
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
