Massive Sinkhole Opens Up On Golf Course

Golfers had to deal with a spectacular divot after a 35ft deep sinkhole appeared on a course in Missouri.

Measuring up to 80ft at its widest point, it was the biggest of four which opened up on the driving range near the town of Branson on Friday.

Experts from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources were called to the scene to assess the cause and impact of the sinkholes.

Doug Gouzie, associate professor of geology and sinkhole expert at Missouri State University, told local media recent heavy rains in the area are likely to have played significant part in their formation.

Water flows downwards through cracks in the rock, eventually reaching a cave below and causing it to collapse.

Sinkholes are not uncommon in Missouri with 15,981 verified in the state, according to the Department of Natural Resources' website.