Karmactive Staff
Recent findings from the University of Houston show that several of Miami’s waterfront high-rises are slowly sinking into the ground. Since 2016, 35 buildings have sunk by up to eight centimeters (three inches).
Pietro Milillo, who led the research, explains the cause in simple terms: “The weight and vibrations from these tall buildings are pressing down on Miami’s sandy ground, causing it to compact over time.”
Miami’s ground consists of porous limestone with sandy layers. When heavy buildings are constructed, they compress these layers. The pressure affects not just the building itself – according to the research, it impacts other structures up to 320 meters away.
The problem is particularly serious in newer buildings. Half of the sinking structures were built after 2014. In the Sunny Isles Beach area, 70% of new high-rises show signs of sinking.
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Using satellite technology that can spot tiny changes in ground level, researchers tracked these buildings over seven years. Some started sinking right after construction, while others continue to sink steadily.
“This isn’t just about individual buildings,” says Antonio Nanni from the University of Miami. “We need a public database where residents can monitor their buildings for any signs of sinking.” Such systems already work well in European cities.
The research combines expertise from several major institutions, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Their findings come at a crucial time, as Miami already faces challenges from rising sea levels.
The sinking poses real concerns for Miami’s coastal development. As a logical safety measure, regular monitoring of affected buildings would help ensure structural integrity over time.
“We need to rethink how we build along the coast,” Milillo adds. “This is about creating safer cities for everyone.”
