Lombardy Faces Water Shortages Threatening Hydropower Output

ARPA Lombardia reports a significant decline in water availability as of March 28, with reserves at 2.455 billion cubic meters, representing a 25% deficit of over 800 million cubic meters. The drop is primarily due to underperforming hydroelectric reservoirs and a lack of high-altitude snow, despite large lakes maintaining acceptable levels through dam regulation.

Mountain basins fed by snowmelt, including Brembo, Serio, and Oglio, are experiencing notable declines, with nearly half the average snowpack missing in Valcamonica and snow levels around 3,400 meters above sea level. Reservoirs like Iseo and Como are operating below optimal capacity, raising concerns about hydroelectric production and water use for sensitive crops such as maize. Legambiente Lombardia urges a reassessment of agricultural practices to reduce water demand.
Italian Version