Study Reveals Dozens of Miami-Area High-Rises Are Sinking

University of Miami researchers found 35 buildings sinking up to three inches since 2016, raising concerns about safety and long-term coastal resilience.

• The study identified 35 buildings from Miami Beach to Sunny Isles Beach experiencing land subsidence, with some sinking as much as three inches between 2016 and 2023.
• Researchers attributed the sinking primarily to construction vibrations compacting soil, though natural factors like tidal movement and soil compaction also play a role.
• Prominent buildings affected include the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Trump Tower III, and the Surf Club Towers, with nearly 70% of affected structures located in Sunny Isles Beach.
• The findings underscore the ongoing risks posed by land subsidence, compounded by rising sea levels in the region, which are increasing at approximately 2.6 inches per decade.
• Scientists emphasize the importance of proactive monitoring using satellite technology to assess building stability and mitigate potential risks before disasters occur.

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