How does over-pumping groundwater relate to sinkholes?

Over-pumping groundwater reduces the water level in aquifers, which can lead to the collapse of underground cavities. When the water that supports the soil and rock above is removed, the structural integrity of the ground can be compromised, increasing the risk of sinkholes. This process is particularly evident in areas with limestone, where the dissolution of the rock creates voids that can eventually collapse. As a result, excessive groundwater extraction can significantly heighten the occurrence of sinkholes in affected regions.