Many US Cities Are Sinking. But In Texas, It’s Worse
Pumping water, oil and gas out of the ground is contributing to land shifting in Texas, putting buildings at risk.
Houston, which has the highest rate of subsidence, is sinking at more than 5 millimeters a year on average.
Photographer: Callaghan O'Hare/BloombergTakeaways NEW
Cities across the US are sinking, and the problem is most pronounced in Texas, according to a new study.
The research, which examined 28 cities and was published in science journal Nature on Thursday, found all of them were affected by subsidence, a geological phenomenon that increases their exposure to disasters like floods and earthquakes. Urban centers in Texas are among those sinking the most and have some of the largest numbers of buildings facing potential dangers, according to the report.