New York is sinking by several millimeters every year – this increases the risk of flooding and the infrastructure is threatened (imago stock&people) The research group led by scientist Leonard Ohenhen from the University of Virginia Tech analyzed ground movements along the US East Coast between 2007 and 2020 using radar measurements with satellites. The study found that large parts of the area are sinking by more than two millimeters annually, and in places by more than ten millimeters. The causes are considered to be the compaction of the subsoil, the falling groundwater level and mining. The researchers warn that the subsidence, combined with rising sea levels, could triple the risk of flooding in some areas within a few decades.
Warnings for New York
The research team sees a particularly high risk for densely populated cities such as New York City, Baltimore and Norfolk. The dilapidated infrastructure there is threatened, i.e. buildings, cables, roads and tracks and even airports. Last May, a team from the US Geological Survey warned of the increasing risk of flooding in New York as the city was sinking due to heavy development.
2024-01-08 01:12:26
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