Sinking U.S. Cities Threaten 34 Million Residents

A study published in Nature Cities finds all 28 of the most populous U.S. cities are sinking, affecting more than 34 million Americans. Houston is the fastest-sinking city, with over 40% of its area subsiding by more than 5 millimeters annually, while Dallas and Fort Worth are the leading inland cities at over 4 millimeters per year. Other major cities impacted include coastal areas like New York and Miami, and landlocked cities such as Phoenix, Denver, and San Antonio. The main driver of subsidence is massive groundwater extraction, but oil and gas removal and the weight of urban infrastructure also play significant roles. The study reveals that at least 20% of each major city is sinking, and in most, over 65% is subsiding, intensifying flood risks and threatening urban sustainability. Researchers urge improved groundwater management to address and mitigate ongoing subsidence.