
San Francisco commuters experienced unexpected delays this morning as a disruption unfolded at the intersection of Lombard and Gough Street. Initial reports shared by the San Francisco Fire Department Media indicated the presence of a sinkhole, measuring approximately 5 feet by 4 feet, urging drivers to avoid the area and brace for traffic congestion. No injuries were associated with the event; however, the surprise of a sinkhole in such a bustling thoroughfare prompted immediate concern.
- @MySFPUC is on scene mitigating a series of potholes at Lombard and Gough, this has been confirmed to NOT be a sinkhole as previously reported to us.
— SAN FRANCISCO FIRE DEPARTMENT MEDIA (@SFFDPIO) February 4, 2025
From: @MySFPUC
Here’s our statement:
“The potholes at Lombard and Gough streets appear to be related to construction that… https://t.co/d53P7LMEZT pic.twitter.com/00gh88HGuh
As the day progressed and experts assessed the scene, a revision surfaced. What was once thought to be a sinkhole was, in fact, an eroded patch of temporary paving. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) was on the scene, stating, as per the San Francisco Fire Department Media, "The potholes at Lombard and Gough streets appear to be related to construction that had been done on a backup water system. After the work was complete, temporary paving was put in place in the area as the construction crew awaited a Caltrans permit to put in permanent paving." Some softer temporary paving seems to have been eroded from traffic and the storm, causing approximately six-inch-deep indentations.
The SFPUC has acted swiftly to ensure the safety and functionality of this critical intersection. Crews have been deployed to temporarily cover the affected area with metal plates, averting the potential hazards potholes like these can pose to unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians alike.