Homes in a California subdivision are sinking into the Earth, reports The Associated Press. The homes are located in Lake County, California, which is approximately 100 miles north of San Francisco.

The AP notes that eight homes are now deserted and more residents are being asked to evacuate before the Earth swallows the rest of the subdivision.

The reason for the sinking seems to be water that has made its way to the surface, according to officials investigating the problem. The only problem with this explanation is that Lake County has groundwater shortages.

According to The AP, a consultant discovered several small leaks in the county water system but they weren’t large enough to explain the water that has appeared. However, a water expert told The AP that he thought “the groundwater has shifted.”

At the end of April, approximately 40 homeowners and renters attended the Lake County Office of Emergency Services meeting at the Board of Supervisors’ chambers. The Lake County Record-Bee reported that frustrations ran high as homeowners discussed the fear of losing their homes but still being responsible for mortgage payments because insurance companies believe the sinking subdivision is an act of God or that the county is responsible.

In February, a Florida man was swallowed up by the Earth when a sinkhole opened beneath the bedroom of his Tampa home. According to the man’s brother, Jeff Bush cried out for help as he fell into the hole. The hole itself was measured to be about 20 to 30 feet across and approximately 30 feet deep.

According to Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection, sinkholes are very common in Florida. Sinkholes form in karst terrain primarily due to the collapse of surface sediments into underground voids and cavities in the limestone bedrock. Slightly acidic ground water slowly creates cavities and caves in the limestone over many years. Eventually, the cavity can no longer support the weight of the dirt above and the Earth falls into cavity, carrying with it structures, cars and people.

What would you do if your house was sinking into the Earth? Share your thoughts in the comments section.