An overview of water resource trends in Veneto, providing a clear picture of the region’s water reserves through transparent and easy-to-understand data. Elisa Venturini, Regional Councilor for the Environment and Climate, outlines the current situation over the past few weeks and calls for careful and responsible water management.
The data we have shows a situation that requires great attention and a sense of responsibility from everyone – explains Councilor Elisa Venturini -. Over the past month, total rainfall has been below the seasonal average we’re accustomed to: it has rained about a quarter less than the average over the last thirty years. This means that the soil and our reservoirs have not received enough water to face the upcoming hot season with the necessary confidence.
The regional picture shows a drop in the levels of the main rivers in Veneto, with a particularly concerning situation for the Adige River.
While the Piave and Brenta rivers are flowing with less water than usual and are very close to their lowest levels– Venturini points out – the most exceptional situation is occurring precisely on the Adige. In recent days, this river has recorded a flow rate lower than the lowest value ever recorded in its entire history for this time of year, dropping even below the levels seen during the severe drought of 2022. This is a historic data point that we are monitoring day by day with the utmost vigilance and that clearly illustrates the uniqueness of the current situation.
In the face of falling river levels, a key source of stability comes from mountain reservoirs, where large artificial basins and dams are holding up exceptionally well.
There is certainly some positive and reassuring news coming from our high-altitude reservoirs, such as Lake Corlo in the Belluno area and the Piave reservoirs – notes the Councilor for the Environment -. At this time, the levels of these large reservoirs are stable or rising slightly, remaining in line with seasonal averages. This is important news because it ensures a valuable strategic reserve for the coming weeks.
More complex, but constantly under control, is the situation regarding groundwater. Aquifers are recording levels below historical averages everywhere, from Treviso to Padua, all the way to Vicenza and Verona, showing a general situation that currently remains stable without major fluctuations.
We are facing a provisional picture that calls for caution, but no cause for alarm – concludes Councilor Elisa Venturini -. The Veneto Region, in coordination with ARPAV technicians and all relevant stakeholders, is actively monitoring the situation 24/7. Our fundamental goal is to protect and manage water resources as effectively as possible, ensuring first and foremost water for citizens’ homes and, immediately thereafter, the water needed for vital sectors such as agriculture. We are ready to coordinate any action necessary to guarantee continuity and security for our territories.
