High Water Emergency Continues in Garda Lake: Sheltering, Rescue Efforts
The high water emergency continues in the Catullian peninsula. So much so that yesterday, volunteers from the inter-municipal Protezione civile service intervened in the Lugana di Sirmione area using water pumps to remove water that was threatening to extend onto the state highway.
The lake levels remain above 170 centimeters, reaching peaks of up to 179, measured on Tuesday the 21st at the old port pier in Desenzano. Yesterday, Garda fluctuated between 174 and 175 centimeters, measured above the zero point on the hydrometric gauge, which is calculated, as is well known, at Peschiera.
Lake situation and impact on the territory
The scenario presented to the first tourists of the year’s final phase is absolutely unique, often with waves rising several meters against the breakwaters. Due to these levels, the lakeside promenade of the peninsula, which was dear to the Latin poet, is flooded in many parts, so much so that two sections have been closed to traffic for over eight days.
The water has also partially invaded the main road leading into the town, the one that goes to the castle and thus to the historic center. Fortunately, there is no wind, which now, with the water so high, represents the main danger for the lakeside towns.
Rescue activities and operations report
Meanwhile, the inter-municipal Protezione civile service has drawn up a preliminary report on the actions carried out over the past six days, which have been particularly demanding for the entire rescue and disaster response structure.
Massimo De Casamassimi, who will soon assume the role of coordinator, summarized yesterday the effort of the volunteers. There were as many as 150 involved, and 2,700 sandbags were filled, distributed, and placed to protect the risk zones.
A total of 4,500 kilometers were traversed by various vehicles, ensuring that emergency vehicles remained constantly operational, while dozens of interventions involved emptying water from basements, warehouses, and rooms flooded by the lake.
Engagement of other administrations and national activities
Recently, the Comune di Montichiari also joined the effort. Over the course of two years, the service has carried out approximately two thousand interventions across the territory, also contributing significantly to national and international emergencies, such as in Piedmont, Umbria, and Kosovo.