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The world’s biggest cities are sinking. Is yours one of them?

How the science connects

Land subsidenceUrbanization

AI Insight

A comprehensive new survey reveals that many of the world's largest cities are experiencing land subsidence at rates of up to several inches per year. This sinking phenomenon affects numerous major urban centers globally and occurs at measurable, significant rates that vary by location.


Urban subsidence threatens critical infrastructure, increases flood vulnerability in coastal cities, and compounds the risks posed by rising sea levels due to climate change. Understanding which cities are most affected allows for better planning of protective measures and infrastructure adaptations to mitigate damage to buildings, roads, and water systems.


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Global cities are subsiding by up to several inches a year, an exhaustive new survey shows

Source: The world’s biggest cities are sinking. Is yours one of them?