Satellite data reveal major cities worldwide are sinking

Satellite observations show land subsidence in major cities around the world. The sinking ground damages buildings, foundations and drainage systems and raises flood risks, yet comparable global assessments have been lacking.

• Satellite data show ground subsidence in major cities worldwide
• Subsidence damages buildings, foundations, drainage and sewage systems
• Sinking ground increases flood risks in cities
• Earlier assessments covered few cities and were hard to compare