Climate change, rising sea levels, land subsidence, and rapid urbanization are putting many coastal cities at risk. Some of the world’s largest and most populated places are slowly sinking — and experts say several could be partially underwater by the end of this century.
Here are the Top 10 cities most likely to sink underwater, based on scientific studies, sea-level rise forecasts, and current sinking rates.
1. Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta is often called “the fastest sinking city in the world.”
Parts of it sink by up to 25 cm every year due to groundwater extraction, overcrowding, and rising sea levels. Scientists predict one-third of Jakarta could be underwater by 2050.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is sinking around 1–2 cm per year.
Built on soft clay land, the city faces severe flooding, rising sea levels, and rapid urbanization. Without intervention, large areas may be submerged by 2050.
3. Venice, Italy
Venice has been sinking for centuries.
Its iconic canals rise above the foundation by about 2 mm per year, while sea levels continue increasing. Floods (“Acqua Alta”) now occur more often and more intensely.
4. New Orleans, USA
New Orleans sits below sea level and is sinking due to soil compaction.
Combined with hurricanes and rising seas, experts warn the city could see major parts underwater without massive protective infrastructure.
5. Shanghai, China
Shanghai is sinking because of its weight and rapid development.
Some areas have sunk more than 3 meters over the last century. With rising seas, low-lying districts remain highly vulnerable.
6. Dhaka, Bangladesh
Dhaka faces a triple threat:
– rising sea levels
– land subsidence
– frequent flooding
Large parts of Bangladesh may be underwater by 2100, impacting millions.
7. Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos lies just a few meters above sea level.
Rapid coastal erosion, flooding, and climate change make it one of Africa’s most threatened cities. Some coastal communities already experience permanent flooding.
8. Miami, USA
Miami is built on porous limestone, meaning seawater rises through the ground, not just from the coast.
Increasing king tides, hurricanes, and land sinking put Miami at high long-term risk.
9. Manila, Philippines
Manila sinks up to 1–2 inches (5 cm) per year in some areas due to overuse of groundwater.
Typhoons and rising sea levels make the situation even more dangerous.
10. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is sinking faster than sea levels are rising.
Experts warn that 90% of the city could be underwater by 2050 unless drastic measures are taken.
Why Are These Cities Sinking?
Several reasons contribute to sinking cities worldwide:
Sea-level rise due to global warming
Groundwater extraction (the biggest cause of land subsidence)
Soft or unstable land
Rapid construction and urban weight
Frequent floods and storms
These factors combined make certain cities extremely vulnerable.
What the Future Looks Like
By 2100, researchers predict that millions of people in these cities may have to relocate.
Some nations are already planning:
Floating neighborhoods
Artificial islands
Massive sea walls
City relocation (like Indonesia moving its capital)
The world map may look very different in the next century.