In a 2020 study, FIU geophysicist Shimon Wdowinski examined land subsidence and sea level in Miami Beach, Fla. and Norfolk, Va. Using available satellite data from 1993 to 1999, Wdowinski discovered land subsidence in Miami Beach and in an area of nearby Surfside, Fla. where the 12-story Champlain Towers South stood. Below, Wdowinski shares his data and explains his research.
An expert in space geodesy, natural hazards and sea level rise, Wdowinski is part of the FIU Institute of Environment and the Department of Earth and Environment. He holds a master’s degree in engineering sciences and a Ph.D. in geophysics from Harvard University. He also holds a master’s degree in geology from Hebrew University.