Geophysical investigations of an anthropogenic sinkhole in the Montelibretti village (Rome, central Italy)
On May 2010, due to heavy rainfall, a sinkhole developed in correspondence of the S.P. Carolano roadway (1+200 km, Montelibretti, Roma), in the southernmost sector of the Sabina area. The collapse is located in correspondence of a “U like” shaped profile of the roadway crossing the central sector of a NNW trending valley. In order to obtain a more complete geological characterization of the sinkhole phenomenon, gravity, seismic and electrical investigations have been carried out on the base of previous detailed studies, historical sources and maps. Due to recent propagation of the sinkhole, probably related to the anthropogenic alteration of the superficial drainage network in previous times and recently triggered by heavy rains, local authorities decided to promptly fill the sinkhole with arid material, in order to preserve public safety. In this study is suggested the restoration of the natural runoff of the water flow in the area.