In the heart of Arizona, a startling geological phenomenon has emerged — a massive crack stretching approximately two miles across the desert landscape. This fissure, located in Pinal County between Casa Grande and Tucson, has captured the attention of geologists and environmentalists alike, raising concerns about its implications for the region’s infrastructure and ecology.

The Crack Unveiled

Discovered by the Arizona Geological Survey in January 2017, this enormous crack is not just a surface anomaly; it reveals deeper geological issues beneath the arid ground. Recent drone footage has shown that while the northern section of the fissure is relatively shallow, the southern part plunges up to 30 feet deep in some areas. Joseph Cook, a geologist with the Arizona Geological Survey, explains that some parts of the fissure are about 10 feet wide, while others are mere inches across, hinting at the potential for further subsidence and collapse in the future.

Causes of the Fissure

The primary culprit behind this geological rift is excessive groundwater extraction. As water is pumped from underground aquifers — often at rates up to 500 times faster than they can naturally replenish — the land above begins to sag and crack. This phenomenon is not new; similar fissures have been appearing in Arizona since the early 20th century, particularly in areas where agricultural practices heavily rely on groundwater.

Cook emphasizes that these fissures are not naturally occurring but rather a direct result of human activity. “It’s something we’ve caused to form,” he states, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water management practices.

The Broader Implications

This giant crack is part of a larger trend affecting not only Arizona but also several southwestern states including Utah and California. The depletion of aquifers poses significant risks to homes, roads, and agriculture. With over 169 miles of fissures documented across Arizona, the situation has reached crisis levels, exacerbated by climate change and insufficient regulatory measures on groundwater use.