Global Cities Sinking Due to Groundwater Depletion, but Hope Remains

September 30, 2026

Cities worldwide are sinking as excessive groundwater extraction causes land subsidence.

The overuse of underground water resources leads to a collapse in soil structures, exacerbating the impact of rising sea levels and increasing flood risks. This phenomenon is particularly critical for coastal urban areas where the ground level is already close to sea level.

When too much water is taken from beneath cities, the land sinks, making flooding more likely as seas rise.

The long-term vulnerability lies in the compounding effects of rising sea levels and sinking land, which could lead to irreversible damage if not addressed. However, replenishing groundwater can reverse this trend.

Can local infrastructure withstand future compounding shocks?

Replenishing groundwater is key to reversing subsidence, but cities must also invest in resilient infrastructure to handle rising seas and sinking land. Immediate action on both fronts is crucial for long-term stability.

Immediate action is needed to ensure resilience.

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Cities across the world are sinking because of groundwater depletion, but the process can be reversed

Many cities around the world are sinking because too much water is extracted from the groundwater reservoirs beneath them. This sinking makes these coastal cities more exposed to rising seas as the climate warms. But as our new research shows, this process can work in reverse: When groundwater is replenished, cities can rise.

phys.org