Sinkhole opens behind Florida middle school

APOPKA, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - A large sinkhole has opened up behind a school in Apopka, Florida.

City officials confirm that the sinkhole, believed to be caused by Hurricane Irma, sits behind Apopka Memorial Middle School and is several yards wide in some places.  The hole is just north of Votaw Road and has done some damage to the West Orange Trail bike and jogging path.

The school is closed through Thursday, as are all Orange County Public Schools.  Authorities are assessing the dangers and have asked the public to avoid the area.