Mexico City Sinking at Alarming Rate, NASA Reports

May 1, 2026

56 min

May 1, 2026 18:32

Why Mexico City is sinking nearly 10 inches a year, according to NASA

## Rapid Subsidence in Mexico City

Mexico City is experiencing significant land subsidence, sinking nearly 10 inches annually, according to recent NASA satellite data. This makes it one of the fastest-sinking cities globally.

## Causes of the Sinking

The city, home to around 22 million people, is built on an ancient lake bed. Extensive groundwater extraction and urban expansion have caused the aquifer to shrink, leading to the ground sinking. This has been happening for over a century, affecting infrastructure like the Metropolitan Cathedral and causing a severe water crisis.

## Impact on Infrastructure

The rapid subsidence is damaging critical infrastructure, including the subway, drainage, and water systems. Some areas, such as the main airport and the Angel of Independence monument, are sinking at a rate of 0.78 inches per month.

## NASA's Role and Future Plans

NASA's NISAR satellite, in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization, has been monitoring these changes. The satellite provides detailed insights into the subsidence, helping researchers understand and potentially mitigate the issue. Future plans include using this technology globally to monitor natural disasters and climate change impacts.

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