NYC’s Skyscrapers Sink Due to Climate Change

[ad_1]

New Study Shows New York City is Sinking and at Risk of Coastal Flooding

According to new research by the United States Geological Survey, New York City is sinking at a rate of about 1-2mm per year. Certain areas, such as lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and northern Staten Island are sinking at a faster rate of 2.75mm each year. Additionally, the New York City Panel on Climate Change states that the city’s sea levels have risen at a much faster rate of about 1.2 inches per decade compared to the world’s sea level rise of about 0.5 inches per decade. This could further increase the city’s already high risk of coastal flooding due to climate change.

The study also highlights the risk posed by new high-rise buildings constructed at coastal, river, or lakefront settings which could contribute to future flood risk. The weight of all of New York City’s buildings is estimated to be around 842 million tons, and the researchers found that areas at higher risk of sinking are those with clay-rich soils due to their softness and ability to flow under pressure.

This problem is not unique to New York City, as major cities on every continent except Antarctica are experiencing subsidence. Coastal cities, in particular, are facing an increased risk of flooding as global warming accelerates. The combination of construction densification and sea level rise implies an increasing inundation hazard.

FAQ Section:

Q: What is subsidence?

A: Subsidence refers to the sinking of land due to ground movement. In the context of this article, it refers to the sinking of urban areas caused by various factors such as the weight of buildings, groundwater extraction, and the type of soil.

Q: How does subsidence increase the risk of coastal flooding?

A: The sinking of urban areas increases the risk of coastal flooding by reducing the elevation of the land, making it more vulnerable to inundation. When combined with the rising sea levels caused by climate change, subsidence can cause devastating flooding.

Q: What is the estimated cost of coastal flooding impacts?

A: A report by the C40 group of major cities taking action on climate change estimates that the cost from these impacts, including rising seas and inland flooding, could reach up to $1 trillion.

[ad_2]

For more information, please refer this link