New York City's subway is a critical part of its public transportation, but its age presents a serious challenge. The system is over one hundred years old, and its original design is struggling to cope with modern issues.
A major issue is flooding, which is getting worse because of a changing climate. More intense rainstorms are happening more often. The subway's outdated infrastructure was not built to handle this much water, so stations and tunnels flood.
This flooding disrupts the lives of millions. When trains are delayed or cancelled, it causes widespread frustration and economic problems. The city is working on solutions, like improving pumps and sealing entrances, but protecting the entire subway system is a massive and expensive task.
Engineers are constantly looking for new ways to protect the tunnels. However, with rising sea levels and stronger storms, the city faces a continuous battle to keep its essential subway running safely and efficiently.