Title: New Study Reveals Sinking Threat in New York City Metropolitan Area
In a recent study conducted by scientists from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Rutgers University, shocking findings have revealed that the New York City metropolitan area is sinking at an alarming average rate of 0.06 inches per year. This revelation has raised concerns about the region’s vulnerability to flooding and highlights the need for immediate action.
Using sophisticated interferometric synthetic aperture radar technology, the study analyzed the vertical land motion from 2016 to 2023. It discovered that areas where land reclamation and landfill construction have occurred are more prone to sinking. In fact, the study identified the Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, built on a landfill, as the fastest-sinking area, sinking at a rate of 0.18 inches per year. Additionally, Woodside in Queens is experiencing a rise of 0.27 inches per year.
Further exacerbating the sinking issue is a separate study conducted in May by oceanologists from the University of Rhode Island and the U.S. Geological Survey. This study found that specific large buildings in New York City are contributing to the sinking problem. Notably, LaGuardia Airport, located in Queens next to Flushing Bay, is sinking at a rate of approximately 0.15 inches per year. To mitigate flooding risks, the airport is currently undergoing an $8 billion renovation.
However, these sinking concerns extend beyond the borders of New York City. The communities of Newark, Kearny, and Harrison in New Jersey are also experiencing sinking, although specific sinking rates were not provided in the study.
Adding to the complexity, rising sea levels are exacerbating the sinking issue. In The Battery, Manhattan, sea levels have risen at a rate of 0.12 inches per year in the 1900s and 0.17 inches per year in recent times. According to NASA’s sea level prediction tool, experts predict that sea levels are likely to rise by 0.04 inches by 2100.
The study underscores the increasing risk of flooding in the New York City metropolitan area due to sinking and ongoing sea level rise. Superstorm Sandy’s devastating impact in 2012 served as a stark reminder of the potential consequences.
Although the study paints a worrisome picture, there are pockets of hope. Certain areas in Brooklyn and Queens, such as East Williamsburg and Woodside, are experiencing rising land levels. These findings emphasize the urgent need for mitigation strategies to address flooding risks, particularly in coastal, riverfront, and lakefront settings where high-rise construction contributes to future flood risks.
In conclusion, this groundbreaking study sheds light on the sinking threat plaguing the New York City metropolitan area. The findings emphasize the importance of taking concrete steps to address the issue as sinking, combined with rising sea levels, poses severe consequences for the region. Urgent action is crucial to safeguard this iconic city against future flooding disasters.
