New research published in the journal Earth and Space Science reveals that dozens of luxury high-rises in Miami are sinking. Researchers said some parts of the city’s metropolitan area are experiencing subsidence, or sinking, in nearly 70% of their buildings.
Researchers conducted the study using data collected at the University of Miami between 2016 and 2023. They identified 35 buildings in Miami that have sunk by as much as three inches.
“The discovery of the extent of subsidence hotspots along the South Florida coastline was unexpected,” Farzaneh Aziz Zanjani, the study’s lead author, said in a statement.
Among the affected structures are high-end condominiums and hotels, including the Porsche Design Tower, the Ritz-Carlton Residences and Trump Tower III. Researchers also detected evidence of early sinking along the coasts of Broward and Palm Beach counties.
Researchers attribute the subsidence to various factors, including construction activity, the compression of sandy soil layers, and South Florida’s limestone foundation. Scientists say limestone is vulnerable to erosion due to its porous nature.
Scientists also cited climate change as a potential accelerant. Researchers said rising sea levels, heavier rainfall and stronger wave activity could make the situation worse.
“The subsidence is probably a combination of several mechanisms,” study co-author Gregor Eberli said. “These findings raise additional questions which require further investigation.”
After this phenomenon was uncovered, researchers revisited the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium that killed 98 people in nearby Surfside, Florida, to examine any potential connections. However, they concluded that subsidence was not a contributing factor in that tragedy.
Researchers didn’t find evidence the sinking is causing structural damage. However, they emphasized the need for continued monitoring and onsite inspections. Scientist said this will help get a “deeper understanding of the long-term implications for these structures.”
“Our hope is that officials in Florida will recognize the value for continued research on this issue across the state,” the study’s senior author Falk Amelung said.
Local officials have assured residents all city inspections for the affected buildings are up-to-date and structurally sound. However, they said continued safety remains a priority. Authorities indicated they intend to review the study’s findings.
