New York City is sinking because of its skyscrapers : A study warns

A recent study suggests that the famous skyscrapers in New York City's skyline, which are known for their impressive height, could be contributing to the city sinking.

A study published in the scientific journal Earth's Future reveals that the combined weight of New York City's buildings, which amounts to approximately 1.68 trillion pounds, is leading to the city sinking at an average rate of about one to two millimeters per year.

The rate at which New York City is sinking, scientifically referred to as the "subsidence rate," was studied by a team of oceanologists from the University of Rhode Island and a researcher from the U.S. Geological Survey. To determine the speed at which the city appears to be sinking, the researchers developed geographic models that demonstrated how the weight of the tall buildings affects the bedrock, clay, sand, and silt beneath certain areas of the region.

The researchers stated that Lower Manhattan, which is characterized by its dense urban development, is more susceptible to sinking compared to other parts of the city. This is particularly concerning because a significant portion of Lower Manhattan is only elevated by about one to two meters above the existing sea level.

Although a decrease of one or two millimeters per year may appear insignificant, researchers cautioned that this gradual shift in the city's elevation poses a greater  risk of flooding in the area, particularly in light of the ongoing rise in sea levels.

In recent years, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Ida in 2021  resulted in the loss of lives of many due to drowning.

According to the study, these occurrences, along with potential future flooding, have the potential to adversely affect the structural stability of buildings in New York City. When saltwater consistently reaches the foundations of buildings, it can lead to corrosion of the reinforced steel and chemical deterioration of the concrete, weakening their overall integrity.

Tom Parsons, the lead researcher of the study and a geophysicist at the US Geological Survey, reassured that there is no immediate need for panic. However, he emphasized the continuous nature of the process, which gradually heightens the risk of flooding and inundation. Parsons made these comments to The Guardian.

The methods to prevent New York City from sinking and mitigate flood risks in the region remain uncertain at this time. Nevertheless, researchers are hopeful that their study will inspire more extensive research into imaginative solutions to tackle the effects of climate change on densely populated urban areas. The aim is to foster innovative approaches that can effectively address these challenges.