A recent study from the University of Miami (UM) has revealed that 35 coastal buildings between Miami Beach and Sunny Isles Beach are sinking at a rate of between 2 and 8 centimeters in recent years.
The research was led by scientists from the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at UM and published in the journal Earth and Space Science.
Findings of the study
The study, which used satellite radars to measure displacement, analyzed the period from 2016 to 2023.
The scientists monitored fixed elements of the buildings, such as balconies, air conditioning units on the roofs, and walkways.
Satellite technology allows for the detection of "millimeter-scale displacements," which facilitates a precise analysis of the phenomenon.
The buildings in Sunny Isles Beach reported the most significant subsidence, followed by those in Surfside.
The latter was the site of the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in 2021, which resulted in nearly 100 fatalities.
The study clarifies that no signs of displacement were detected in Surfside prior to the collapse, indicating that the sinking was not the cause of the disaster.
"The discovery of the extent of the sinking areas along the southern coast of Florida was unexpected. The study highlights the need for constant monitoring and a deeper understanding of the long-term implications for these structures," noted Farzaneh Aziz Zanjani, who led the research.
Professor Gregor Eberli, co-author of the study, emphasized:
"The sinking, officially known as subsidence, is not exclusive to southern Florida. For example, New Orleans, Mexico City, and Venice are classic cases where entire cities are sinking. Compared to these examples, this is relatively minor."
Causes of the phenomenon
The study attributes the sinking to several factors, including: the displacement of grains in the sand layers due to the weight of the buildings and construction vibrations, daily tidal flows, and the potential cracking of the limestone beneath the surface.
Eberli noted that the limestone in Florida is usually stable, but he clarified that the sand tends to compact over time.
"The sand portions will always compact a little over time. It's a very slow process, and the structural integrity will not be affected by settling slightly," he explained.
However, he emphasized that the stability of the ground varies: “The more resistant limestone in the southern part of the research area does a better job of supporting heavy buildings than the softer ground in the north.”
Impact and Reactions
The study arises in the context of the Champlain Towers South tragedy, which has prompted increased scrutiny of infrastructure in South Florida.
Although the collapse was not related to subsidence, researchers warned that vibrations caused by nearby construction in Surfside did lead to sinking in other buildings.
The mayor of Surfside, Charles Burkett, expressed his concern and stated that he will present the study at the upcoming municipal commission meeting.
For his part, Eberli emphasized that, although there is no cause for alarm, the study should encourage ongoing monitoring efforts.
"The study should generate greater monitoring efforts and other forms of research. I wasn't surprised that it happened, but the rates aren't that high," he concluded.
Although the data do not pose an immediate threat, experts emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring measures to ensure the safety and stability of these structures in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Sinkholes on Florida's South Coast
How many buildings are being affected by the sinking on Florida's southern coast?
A study by the University of Miami has revealed that 35 coastal buildings between Miami Beach and Sunny Isles Beach are sinking at a rate of 2 to 8 centimeters in recent years.
What is the cause of the sinking of buildings in Florida?
The study attributes the sinking to several factors, such as the displacement of grains in the sand layers due to the weight of buildings, the vibrations from construction, daily tidal flows, and the possible fracturing of the limestone beneath the surface.
Does the sinking of buildings in Florida pose an imminent risk?
According to experts, the data does not pose an immediate threat; however, they emphasize the need to implement continuous monitoring measures to ensure the safety and stability of these structures in the future.
What other places experience similar subsidence phenomena as Florida?
The phenomenon of sinking, known as subsidence, is not exclusive to southern Florida. New Orleans, Mexico City, and Venice are classic examples where entire cities are sinking. Compared to these instances, what is happening in Florida is relatively small.
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