Experts are sounding the alarm, stating the need for the most decisive actions, including the possible relocation of some residents.
Italian Venice, despite the existing flood protection system, is forced to seek new ways to combat the consequences of climate change. Scientists are already openly discussing the need for radical measures, including even partial relocation of the population.
As reported by The Independent, sea levels are steadily rising, and the existing barriers may prove insufficient to protect the city. This concerns the grand protective barrier system MOSE, which cost approximately 6 billion euros to construct. This system effectively closes off the lagoon during high tides, proving its functionality. However, it has to be activated more frequently: from 2020 to 2025, MOSE was activated 108 times, and just in the first two months of 2026 — already 30 times.
Alarming Consequences of Frequent Closures
Experts warn that in the future, the barriers may remain closed for several weeks each year. This poses serious problems, from disrupting navigation to deteriorating the ecological condition of the unique lagoon.
There will also be an acute need for additional engineering solutions, such as powerful pumps and complex water purification systems. Venice faces a choice: modernize the existing system or seek entirely new approaches.
Radical Rescue Scenarios
Among the possible scenarios is the construction of ring dikes around the city or the creation of large-scale protective structures. In the most extreme case, scientists do not rule out even the partial relocation of residents, which sounds like science fiction but is becoming a reality.
Experts emphasize that even with moderate warming, sea levels will continue to rise for centuries. This could significantly exceed the capabilities of the current infrastructure, requiring unprecedented solutions.
Therefore, Venice is already compelled to plan long-term and much more radical measures for its survival. The city, which has fought against water for centuries, now faces a challenge of unprecedented scale.
Leave a comment