The possible Earth fissures on Van Ness Rd in Cochise County have grown dramatically since the beginning of the month. AZGS geologist Mike Mahan reports that the west segment extended 183 feet between August 5 and August 19. The east segment extended a further 239 feet.
Local residents are in a debate with the county over who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the road. Some residents brought out heavy equipment and filled in much of the rift, but subsequent rains appear to have washed the fill into deeper stretches, leaving the road pretty much as it was before. [right, Van Ness Rd on August 19. Photo by Mike Mahan]