New Bubbles Could Signal Blast Risk at Louisiana Sinkhole Site

Authorities say state and parish agencies are testing to see whether newly discovered gas bubbles northeast of the Bayou Corne-area sinkhole are tied to the swampland hole.

The Advocate reports the state Office of Conservation and contractor CB&I have taken samples of the gas bubbles to determine their source, though officials acknowledge the bubbles likely are connected to the sinkhole.

Parish officials say the new bubble site in Grand Bayou is about one-third of a mile north of La. Highway 70 and Highway 69.

Scientists think the gas presents an explosion risk for residents and the area remains under an evacuation order 18 months after the sinkhole appeared.