The Dead Sea is famous for its high salt content, and because salt water is denser than fresh water, it's easier for us to stay afloat in the Dead Sea than in an average swimming pool. That's why millions of tourists flock to its waters annually for the unique experience of feeling like they're floating weightlessly.
However, the Dead Sea is in danger of disappearing due to the lack of water coming in from its main source: the Jordan River. That, combined with the mineral mining that's taking place in the south portion of the Sea has created a detrimental situation.
Sinkholes, some the size of a basketball court, are appearing around the now receding water, threatening visitors' safety and creating a ghastly landscape. Take a look at the almost unrecognizable recent images of the Dead Sea.
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The Dead Sea is receding by about 3 feet (1 meter) per year.
Dangerous sinkholes form when the Dead Sea's salty water recedes. From there, fresh groundwater bubbles up, dissolving layers of salt in the land, which creates large underground cavities.
Sinkholes can open up without warning, making the shores especially dangerous.
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