In December 2023, Sarah Rosenkranz, a 43-year-old small business owner from Granbury, Texas, experienced a severe migraine that lasted for five days. Despite multiple rounds of IV medication and painkillers, the pain persisted. This was not an isolated incident, as Sarah’s 5-year-old daughter had also experienced strange symptoms earlier in the year. It wasn’t until January 2024, when Sarah attended a town hall meeting, that she realized many others in the community were suffering from similar mysterious illnesses. These symptoms included hearing loss, fainting spells, vertigo, and nausea, all accompanied by a constant aural hum that emanated from a nearby Bitcoin mining facility.
The hum, which grew louder and more intense at different times of the day, was causing disruptions in the lives of the residents of Granbury. The noise exceeded legal ordinances and prevented many from getting a good night’s sleep. As more and more people came forward with their health issues, it became clear that there was a correlation between the arrival of the Bitcoin mine and the onset of these symptoms. Over the course of several months in 2024, TIME spoke to over 40 individuals in the area who believed that their medical problems were directly related to the mining facility.
The residents of Granbury were experiencing a range of health issues, including hypertension, heart palpitations, chest pain, and vertigo, which they attributed to the noise and vibrations coming from the Bitcoin mine. Many reported feeling as though their heads were being crushed or that there was pressure building up in their skulls. The situation was particularly concerning for children, with reports of hearing loss and fluid leakage from ears. The community was united in their frustration and fear over the impact of the mine on their health and well-being.
Local law enforcement had been made aware of the noise violations at the Bitcoin mining facility, but little had been done to address the issue. The residents of Granbury felt ignored and powerless in the face of these health problems, with many expressing anger and disbelief that a single business could have such a detrimental impact on their lives. As the situation continued to escalate, the community banded together to demand action and accountability from the authorities and the mining company responsible for the disruption.
The case of Granbury, Texas, serves as a cautionary tale about the potential health risks and community impacts of industrial operations like Bitcoin mining. It highlights the importance of regulations and oversight to protect the well-being of residents and the environment. The residents of Granbury continue to fight for their health and quality of life, hoping for a resolution that will put an end to their suffering and ensure that similar situations are prevented in the future.
