Aqua alta, an Italian term that translates to “high water”, refers to an unusual tidal phenomenon that periodically engulfs the northern Adriatic Sea, mainly affecting the Veneto region of Italy. does. The peak of this phenomenon appears within the Venetian lagoon, resulting in partial inundation in Venice and Chioggia, with sporadic flooding events noted in Grado and Trieste but to a lesser extent.
Unraveling the Causes
This natural spectacle is mainly visible from autumn to spring, when the sky waves, reinforced by seasonal winds, affect the traditional ebb. Important wind elements include the Sirocco, moving north along the Adriatic, and the Bora, which exerts a local influence due to the specific layout and position of the Venetian lagoon.
Basic factors
Acqua alta finds its roots in precise scientific parameters, specifically assessed at the hydrographic station near the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. These parameters classify tidal events based on deviations from “standard” wave measurements:
Extreme: 80 cm to 109 cm above sea level standard
Very severe: 110 cm to 139 cm above sea level standard
Abnormal high water: sea level 140 cm or more above standard
The rise in tide level depends mainly on three contributing factors:
Environmental Influences
The movements of the celestial bodies, primarily governed by the Moon and secondarily by the Sun, this element can be accurately calculated over long periods of time.
Geophysical component: Influenced by the geometric structure of the basin, it replaces the astronomical factor and can also be calculated for long-term forecasts.
Climatic component: Driven by an array of variables including wind direction and strength, barometric pressure fields, precipitation, etc., this aspect remains difficult to model statistically, due to its complex interactions and unpredictable nature. ) leads to short-term forecasts. This element often creates an unexpected aqua inversion emergency in Venus.
Environmental effects
Natural factors such as subsidence (gradual sinking of the lake) and eustasy (rise in surface level) further contribute to this phenomenon. Although these events are caused by natural processes, human activities have intensified their effects. Industrial use of lake water in Puerto Margheira has accelerated the decline, while global warming has been associated with an accelerated rate.
The “Tide Monitoring and Forecast Center” reports that Venice has dropped 23 cm since 1897, including 12 cm from natural causes (9 from eustasy, 3 from subsidence), 13 cm from humans. from coming down from, and reclaiming “soil” flexible recovery” 2 cm.
Aqua Alta stands out as a complex interplay of celestial, geological, and climatic factors, exacerbated by human-induced changes, in Venus’s ongoing battle with the dynamic forces that shape its aquatic landscape. clarifies.
A Literary Miracle Among the Waters of Venice: The Biblioteca Aqua Alta
In a city where waterways replace streets, the idea of hoarding a treasure trove of books can seem daunting. However, the Libreria Acqua Alta in Venice protects its collection by placing it in a waterproof basin, reflecting the city’s resilience against constant flooding.
Dubbed the “world’s most beautiful bookstore,” this charming haven is a maze of rooms filled with books, magazines, and maps. To combat Venice’s chronic flooding, the bookstore’s charming stacks are strategically surrounded by bathtubs, waterproof boxes, and a full-sized gondola, embodying the essence of its namesake — “Highwater’s Bookstore.”
When local water levels rise, flooding the store’s premises, the stock is preserved, floating inches above the floor, a process that would otherwise obliterate any traditional bookstore. Reflecting the whimsical atmosphere, the “fire escape” is just one door leading to the canal, which completes the distinctive allure of the bookstore. In addition to its unique environment, the stray cat known as the Library Paradise takes refuge among the books during the summer months.
Libreria Acqua Alta is located on an island in the Castello district of Venice and has a boat full of books in its room and a special menu to share the book collection with cats. Some of their collections include vintage books in good condition, second-hand treasures, prints and memorabilia. Despite advances like new storm barriers, boat owners are still cautious. Seasonal flooding in Venice suggested unusual storage of books in a boat or shower.
For those looking to explore this gem, it is recommended to avoid the holidays, especially during the busy summer season, as traffic is heavy.
As the tides rise and fall, Libraria Aqua Alta proves the ultimate Venetian allure by creatively juxtaposing its rich ingredients with the city’s watery landscape.
