Underground Climate Change: Shifting Ground in Cities

Discovering Underground Climate Change

Scientists have recently discovered a new and concerning phenomenon known as underground climate change. This phenomenon is linked to the shifting ground beneath urban areas and has significant implications for the stability and functionality of cities.

Cities are already known for their heat island effect, where they absorb and release heat differently than rural areas. However, it is now understood that cities not only release heat into the air but also into the ground. As the ground heats up, it deforms, causing excessive movement and even cracking of building foundations and the surrounding ground.

A study conducted by scientists at Northwestern University in Chicago revealed these findings. Data collected from sensors placed in basements, subway tunnels, underground parking garages, and subsurface streets supported the conclusions. The researchers expect these issues to persist for years to come.

While underground climate change may not directly pose a safety risk to individuals, it can significantly impact the day-to-day operations of foundation systems and civil infrastructure. Many downtown foundations are experiencing unwanted settlement, leading to a gradual sinking effect. This highlights that living in a sinking city is not limited to places like Venice; cities worldwide can face similar subsidence issues due to different causes.

It is important to understand and address underground climate change in urban planning and infrastructure design to ensure the long-term stability and functionality of cities. Unfortunately, no existing civil structure or infrastructure is designed to withstand the ground deformations caused by this phenomenon. Increased awareness, research, and mitigation efforts are necessary to tackle this silent hazard and protect urban environments from its consequences.

The study, published in Nature Communications Engineering, emphasizes the need for further research and consideration of underground climate change in urban development. By addressing this issue, cities can better prepare for the long-term effects and ensure the resilience of their infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Source of this article:

• https://earthsky.org/earth/underground-climate-change-cities-infrastructure/
• The silent impact of underground climate change on civil infrastructure
• What is an Urban Heat Island?

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