U.S. Megacities Are Gradually Sinking: Scientists' Data Is Shocking.

U.S. Cities Are Sinking

According to the results of a new study published in Nature Cities, 28 of the largest cities in the U.S., including New York, Chicago, Dallas, and Denver, are sinking at varying rates. Specifically, this process can range from two to ten millimeters per year. This was reported by Glavkom.

A team of researchers from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute developed maps of land subsidence in U.S. cities using satellite measurement data. The results showed that in each of the 28 cities, at least 20% of the city area is sinking.

Even minor land subsidence can significantly compromise the structural integrity of buildings, roads, bridges, and railways, researchers noted.

Texas has the highest rates of city subsidence. For example, about 40% of Houston's area is sinking at more than five millimeters a year, and 12% of the city's area is sinking at ten millimeters a year. According to the study, most of these problems are caused by groundwater extraction due to human activity. With the recovery of cities, this problem may worsen.

It is noted that Venice has sunk by 25 centimeters over the last century, while sea levels have risen by 30 cm. Italy has also developed a plan to save the city from these issues.

Analysis

The study of sinking rates in cities is critical information for local authorities, which can be used for future development planning and protecting infrastructure from negative impacts. Rising sea levels and global climate change may further exacerbate this issue, making timely actions essential to preserve the integrity of cities and their residents.