| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| Subsidence | The gradual sinking of land, often due to groundwater depletion. |
| Aquifer | A natural underground area where large quantities of water are stored. |
| Depletion | A reduction in the number or quantity of something. |
Mexico City is sinking at an alarming rate, according to new data from NASA. The city, already known for its subsidence issues, is now sinking nearly 10 inches each year. Over the past century, it has sunk an astonishing 40 feet. This information comes from the NISAR satellite project, a collaboration between the U.S. and India, which uses radar imaging to measure changes in the Earth’s surface.
Historically, Mexico City’s sinking has been a concern. A 1995 study showed a sinking rate of about two inches per year by the late 1800s. However, recent data from NISAR shows that the sinking rate has accelerated, with the city sinking more than half an inch every month during the dry season of October 2025 to January 2026.
The main cause of this subsidence is the depletion of water from what was once a vast lake system. Mexico City heavily depends on underground aquifers for its water supply. However, a growing population and climate change have led to insufficient rainfall to replenish these aquifers. As the water levels drop, the ground compresses, affecting buildings, roads, and infrastructure.
Visible signs of subsidence include leaning buildings, cracked roads, and sinking monuments. Streets may also buckle, and sinkholes can form, leading to burst water pipes and other infrastructure damage. Geophysicist Enrique Cabral highlights the severe impact on critical systems like the subway and water supply.
The government has attempted to address the issue by limiting groundwater extraction, seeking new water sources, and repairing water pipes. However, these efforts require significant funding and may not keep pace with the ongoing subsidence.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Radar | Radar |
| Satellite | Satélite |
| Climate | Clima |
Time to discuss
- What are the potential long-term impacts if Mexico City continues to sink at this rate?
- How might climate change be affecting water availability in urban areas globally?
- What solutions could be implemented to address the issue of subsidence in Mexico City?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Discuss the role of technology in monitoring environmental changes like subsidence.
- Explain how human activities contribute to geological changes in urban areas.
