Venice Flooding on November 12, 2019

On November 12, 2019, Venice, Italy, experienced its worst flooding in over half a century. The water levels reached an alarming 1.87 meters (6.14 feet), marking the highest tide since the infamous flood of 1966. This catastrophic event caused extensive damage to the city’s historic sites, buildings, and infrastructure.

Context and Causes

Venice, a city renowned for its intricate network of canals and stunning architecture, is particularly vulnerable to flooding due to its unique geographical position. The city is built on a series of islands within the Venetian Lagoon, which is connected to the Adriatic Sea. Several factors contributed to the severe flooding:

• High Tides and Storm Surges: The phenomenon known as “acqua alta” (high water) is common in Venice, especially during the autumn and winter months. This particular event was exacerbated by a combination of high tides and strong winds, which pushed seawater into the lagoon.
• Climate Change: Rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change have made Venice more susceptible to flooding.
• Subsidence: The gradual sinking of the city, a process known as subsidence, has also contributed to the increased risk of flooding over the years.

Impact

The flooding on November 12, 2019, had a profound impact on Venice:

• Historic Sites: Iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica suffered significant damage. The basilica’s crypt was submerged, and the saltwater posed a threat to its ancient mosaics and marble floors.
• Infrastructure and Economy: Many businesses, homes, and public buildings were inundated, causing millions of euros in damage. The city’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism, was severely affected as visitors were deterred by the flooding.
• Cultural Heritage: The floodwaters threatened Venice’s rich cultural heritage, including its art, architecture, and historical artifacts.

Aftermath and Response

In the wake of the disaster, the Italian government declared a state of emergency and allocated funds for immediate relief and restoration efforts. The event also reignited discussions about the MOSE project, a long-delayed flood barrier system designed to protect Venice from high tides. The project, which had faced numerous delays and controversies, was seen as a crucial measure to prevent future flooding.

Broader Significance

The 2019 flooding underscored the urgent need for effective measures to combat climate change and protect vulnerable cities like Venice. It highlighted the challenges faced by historic cities in adapting to modern environmental threats and the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of such challenges.

Overall, the flooding of November 12, 2019, served as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human habitation in one of the world’s most unique cities.