Massive underground blob could reshape New York City

A gigantic blob of hot rock under New England is moving towards New York, with potential long-term impacts.

Massive underground blob could reshape New York City

A large underground formation, known as the Northern Appalachian Anomaly (NAA), is situated about 125 miles below the surface of New England. Recently discovered by a team from the University of Southampton and the Helmholtz Center for Geosciences, this 250-mile blob of hot rock is slowly shifting southward at a rate of about 12 miles per million years. While it is expected to reach New York City in approximately 15 million years, scientists emphasize its significant geological implications; the NAA may influence seismic activity patterns and reshape the region's geological landscape.

The discovery of the NAA challenges the long-held perception that the eastern United States is geologically inactive. Instead, it suggests a dynamic undercurrent of geological movement that could reshape mountains and potentially affect earthquake patterns. As researchers continue to explore the geological history linked to the NAA, they are uncovering a narrative that connects ancient formations with current and future landscape changes. The connection between the NAA and other geological anomalies illustrates how our understanding of Earth's tectonic activity is rapidly evolving, prompting a reevaluation of established theories.

Highlights

Scientists will continue to monitor this intriguing geologic phenomenon as research evolves.