Title: New York City Faces Growing Threat of Differential Land Motion, Study Finds
Subtitle: NASA and Rutgers University researchers employ radar technology to reveal concerning rates of land sinking and rising in the New York City metropolitan area.
New York City, renowned for its iconic skyline and bustling streets, is facing an unprecedented challenge as parts of the metropolitan area experience varying rates of sinking and rising, according to a new study published in Science Advances. Researchers from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Rutgers University undertook a comprehensive analysis using a remote sensing technique called interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) to shed light on vertical land motion in the region from 2016 to 2023.
While the observed elevation changes measured in fractions of inches per year might seem insignificant, they hold significant implications for the city’s vulnerability to future floods associated with rising sea levels. The study notes that tracking local elevation changes and relative sea level is crucial for accurate flood mapping and planning, particularly in the context of climate change.
The research team found that previous modifications to the Earth’s surface, including land reclamation and landfill construction, are responsible for significant subsidence in some areas. As the ground becomes more compressible due to these human activities, it gradually sinks. Notably, subsidence is occurring at higher rates near well-known locations such as LaGuardia Airport and Arthur Ashe Stadium.
In contrast, the study also identified areas experiencing uplift, with East Williamsburg in Brooklyn and Woodside in Queens being notable examples. These areas are witnessing a gradual rise in land elevation, a phenomenon attributed to natural processes dating back thousands of years to the most recent ice age. As the Earth’s mantle readjusts, localized uplift can occur.
On average, the metropolitan area is subsiding at a rate of roughly 0.06 inches (1.6 millimeters) per year. To effectively address this concerning issue, the findings of the study can guide authorities in making informed decisions regarding coastal defenses and infrastructure investments. As New York City grapples with the growing threat of climate change-induced rising sea levels, understanding and mitigating the effects of differential land motion are increasingly paramount.
The use of InSAR technology proved instrumental in mapping and identifying specific locations experiencing differential land motion. By accurately monitoring and tracking these changes, researchers and city planners can develop effective strategies for flood resilience and urban development in the face of climate change.
In conclusion, the recent study highlights the pressing need to address the varying rates of land sinking and rising in the New York City metro area. By understanding the underlying causes and closely monitoring elevation changes, authorities can take proactive measures to safeguard the city’s future against the threat of climate change and rising sea levels.
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