Study Reveals Major US Atlantic Coast Cities Are Sinking at Alarming Rates

A recent study has uncovered a concerning reality for major cities on the US Atlantic coast, including New York City, Long Island, and other coastal regions – they are sinking at a rate of 2mm per year. The sinking land poses significant threats, raising concerns about flooding, long-term viability, and the potential impact on densely populated areas.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academies of Sciences, sheds light on the impact of sinking land on major metropolitan areas like Baltimore, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach. These coastal cities are already susceptible to flooding, and the additional threat of sinking land amplifies the risks.

While the sinking may appear gradual, researchers emphasize that the consequences are real and pose a serious threat to the future of these regions. The study measured subsidence rates of 2mm per year, affecting over 2 million people and 800,000 properties on the East Coast.

Virginia Tech professor and researcher Manoochehr Shirzaei highlighted, “We know to some extent that the land is sinking. Through this study, we highlight that the sinking of the land is not an intangible threat. It affects you, me, and everyone; it may be gradual, but the impacts are real.”

The sinking of land, or subsidence, is occurring at a remarkable rate of 2 millimeters per year in various locations, according to the study. The authors underscore the significant threat posed by this hazard to major metropolitan cities, where rising sea levels intersect with densely populated areas and valuable properties.

The research aims to provide crucial quantitative data for planning coastal disaster resilience. Infrastructure failure not only carries severe environmental consequences but also has the potential to lead to substantial loss of life. The study serves as a wake-up call for policymakers and residents to address this growing problem and implement measures to mitigate the impact of sinking land on coastal regions.

Edited by Dr. Brijendra Kumar Mishra, (Disaster Risk Reduction Expert)