28 US cities, including New York, Chicago and others are sinking, satellite study reveals
Times of India - ScienceFriday, May 16, 2025 at 9:00:33 AM
A new satellite study shows that 28 major U.S. cities—including New York, Chicago, and Houston—are slowly sinking, with rates ranging from 2 to 10 millimeters per year. The main culprits? Groundwater depletion and urban development. This gradual subsidence isn’t just a curiosity—it’s putting infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings at risk, which could spell trouble for public safety down the line.
What This Means: Imagine your house settling unevenly over time—except it’s entire cities. This isn’t science fiction; it’s happening right now, and it’s a big deal because sinking land can weaken foundations, disrupt utilities, and even worsen flooding. For coastal cities already battling sea-level rise, this is a double whammy. Basically, the ground beneath our feet isn’t as stable as we thought, and that’s something planners and policymakers can’t ignore.
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