NASA Satellite Detects Critical Sinking in Mexico City
Mexico City, May 2, 2026 – The new NASA satellite (NISAR), launched in July 2025, has detected that certain zones of Mexico City (CDMX) and the metropolitan area are sinking at an alarming rate. According to reports from late last year and early 2026, the subsidence is occurring at a rate of 2 centimeters per month.
The primary objective of the NISAR satellite is to measure changes in the Earth’s surface, ice, and ecosystems using a dual-frequency radar that scans the planet every 12 days. This data has been instrumental in identifying the root cause of recent sinkholes, potholes, and fractures in the Metro system that residents experience daily.
Most Affected Boroughs in Mexico City
According to the NASA report, a dark blue map highlights critical areas in the central and northeastern parts of Mexico City. The boroughs most affected by this subsidence include:
- Venustiano Carranza: Specifically, the Benito Juárez International Airport (AICM) is experiencing critical sinking.
- Cuauhtémoc: Since 1910, 14 steps have been added to the Angel of Independence due to the sinking in the city center.
- Iztapalapa, Tláhuac, and Gustavo A. Madero: These boroughs are located in the ancient lakebed area, near Lake Nabor Carrillo, as cited by NASA. Historically, these areas have experienced the highest soil compaction.
The map, provided by NASA, visually represents the critical sinking zones in dark blue, indicating the severity of the issue in these regions.
Causes of the Sinking Phenomenon
The primary cause of the widespread sinking in Mexico City is the overexploitation of the aquifer, meaning that excessive amounts of groundwater are being extracted. This, combined with the immense weight of the city’s buildings, contributes to the subsidence. The sinking is not uniform; different areas experience varying degrees of subsidence, measured in centimeters per month.
This uneven sinking is responsible for the frequent breakage of water pipes and damage to the Mexico City Metro system’s infrastructure, posing significant challenges for urban maintenance and public safety.
adn Noticias is committed to providing accurate information. Stay informed by subscribing to our Telegram channel for the latest updates.
This discovery underscores the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning and water management strategies to mitigate the ongoing risks associated with the sinking ground in one of the world’s largest cities.
