This video is posted for the benefit of students in my foundations engineering classes. Enjoy!
Note rise of GWT reduces the effective stress and decreases bearing capacity of sand. This occurred in Queens New York (although other factors were also involved).
See NY Times coverage
http://www.nytimes.com/2001/02/11/nyregion/neighborhood-report-briarwood-homes-sink-and-evacuated-families-seek-answers.html
See jury award $6.8M
http://www.timesledger.com/stories/2008/10/20080305-archive.html