The Stream, September 14: The East Coast of the U.S. Is Slowly Sinking, Study Finds
The Global Rundown
The East Coast of the United States is being submerged by up to three millimeters of water per year, raising the risk of flooding throughout the region. Water surrounding the island of Salamis, Greece turns black after a tanker carrying crude oil sinks nearby. Torrential rains in the Philippines flood towns and trigger a landslide. Lakes and rivers in Portugal evaporate amid the country’s worst drought in 20 years. Several islands in the Caribbean are running out of food and water after sustaining heavy damages by Hurricane Irma.
“The people have to get out because there’s no water to drink. That’s the end of Saint Martin.” –Charles Morrison, a tourist from New York, in reference to the dire water shortages developing on Saint Martin and other Caribbean islands in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Water towers and other critical infrastructure were wiped out on several islands, and imported water is running low. Aid organizations are also rushing to provide food supplies to the devastated archipelago. Miami Herald
By The Numbers
2,000 Tons of crude oil that spilled into the waters surrounding Salamis island, Greece after an oil tanker sunk over the weekend. The spill stretches nearly a mile long and blackened Selinia bay and the shores of Salamis. The Independent
80 percent Proportion of Portugal that is classified as experiencing “severe” or “extreme” drought as the worst dry spell in 20 years grips the country. Several rivers and lakes are drying up and irrigation may soon be banned in certain areas. Chicago Tribune
Science, Studies, And Reports
The East Coast of the United States could soon experience more frequent flooding, according to researchers from the University of Bonn. Coastal areas are being immersed by up to three millimeters of water a year due to significant groundwater use and melting ice sheets. The states of Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina are especially at risk. Science Daily
In context: Ideas for understanding and responding to the world’s groundwater challenge
On The Radar
Areas of the northern Philippines, including the capital Manila, were inundated by heavy rains this week from Typhoon Talim and Tropical Depression Maring. The storms brought neck-deep floodwaters to some areas and triggered a landslide in the municipality of Taytay. At least two people have been killed and several others are missing. Al Jazeera
Kayla Ritter is a recent graduate of Michigan State University, where she studied International Relations and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. She is currently based in Manton, Michigan. Kayla enjoys running, writing, and traveling. Contact Kayla Ritter
