Lake Maggiore at +1.35m: Gobbi, balanced solution
Ticino State Councillor Norman Gobbi comments on the rise of Lake Maggiore's maximum level to +1.35 metres.
Contesto
In brief - Lake Maggiore at +1.35 meters: a balanced solution - Italy caught off guard by rise to +1.40 meters - Gobbi: "Breach of agreements, UFAM intervention" ## Key facts - What: Maximum level rise of Lake Maggiore - When: Announced on May 1, 2026 - Where: Lake Maggiore, Canton Ticino - Who: Po River Basin Authority, Canton Ticino - Amount: +1.35 meters (ordinary), +1.40 meters (summer) Ticino State Councillor Norman Gobbi commented on the rise of the maximum level of Lake Maggiore to +1.35 meters above the zero hydrometric level of Sesto Calende, defining it as a "comprehensive balanced solution." The decision was made as part of the experimental program on the regulation of Lake Maggiore levels, conducted by the Po River Basin Authority. The agreed ordinary maximum level remains set at +1.35 meters, while the summer limit of +1.40 meters can only be considered in case of water severity. ### Reactions and Criticisms The Swiss authorities were not consulted and, consequently, were not aware of the decision to extend the summer maximum level to +1.40 meters. Canton Ticino immediately reported this breach of agreements to the Federal Office for the Environment (UFAM), asking it to intervene with the competent Italian authorities. Gobbi stated that the level of +1.35 meters is the result of a compromise matured through dialogue between Italian and Swiss institutions, within the framework of the bilateral body. ### Implications for Canton Ticino A possible rise in the lake level can lead to various critical issues in Ticino territory. From an environmental point of view, it can affect the balance of riverside ecosystems. Moreover, in case of flooding, the hydraulic safety margin is reduced, increasing the risk for riverside areas. Lastly, higher levels can create di...
Dettagli operativi
• The rise in the water level of Lake Maggiore by +1.35 meters has significant implications for cross-border workers and residents along the lake's shores. In particular, changes in maximum levels can affect hydraulic safety and the use of public spaces. ### Impact on Hydraulic Safety The rise in the lake's water level can reduce the hydraulic safety margin, increasing the risk of flooding. This is particularly relevant for lakeside areas, which could be more exposed to flooding during high water events. Ticino authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining an adequate regulation margin to contain potential floods, especially during the summer months. ### Use of Public Spaces Higher water levels in the lake can create difficulties in accessing the shores, affecting the accessibility of public spaces and recreational and tourist activities. This is particularly important as we approach the swimming season. Ticino authorities are evaluating the necessary measures to ensure the safety and usability of public spaces along the lake's shores. ### Dialogue Between Institutions Councilor of State Gobbi reiterated the importance of constant dialogue between Italian and Swiss institutions to ensure balanced and safe management of Lake Maggiore's water resources. Ticino authorities have reported violations of agreements to the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), asking them to intervene with the competent Italian authorities to resolve the situation. ### Next Steps Ticino authorities are closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with Italian institutions to ensure safe and sustainable management of Lake Maggiore's water resources. It is crucial to maintain constant dialogue and respect the established agreements to avoid further violations and ensure...
Punti chiave
For cross-border workers and residents along the shores of Lake Maggiore, it is important to be aware of the implications of the rise in the lake's water level. The Ticino authorities are working to ensure the safety and usability of public spaces, but it is crucial to follow the authorities' instructions and respect safety measures. ### What to do in case of flooding In case of flooding, it is important to follow the instructions of local authorities and respect safety measures. The Ticino authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide real-time updates. It is essential to avoid approaching the lake shores and follow the instructions to ensure your safety. ### Enjoyment of public spaces The Ticino authorities are evaluating the necessary measures to ensure the enjoyment of public spaces along the lake shores. It is important to respect the authorities' instructions and follow safety measures to avoid accidents. Recreational and tourist activities will be closely monitored to ensure everyone's safety. ### Dialogue and collaboration Dialogue between Italian and Swiss institutions is fundamental to ensure a balanced and safe management of Lake Maggiore's water resources. The Ticino authorities are collaborating with Italian institutions to resolve the violation of agreements and ensure compliance with established procedures. It is important to maintain constant dialogue and respect agreements to avoid further violations and ensure the safety of the lakeside territories. ### Useful tools For further information and to monitor the situation of Lake Maggiore, you can consult the lake level calculator and follow the updates from local authorities. It is essential to stay informed and follow the authorities' instructions to ensure your safety and that of...
Punti chiave
[{"q":"What is the ordinary maximum level of Lake Maggiore?","a":"The ordinary maximum level of Lake Maggiore is set at +1.35 meters above the zero hydrometric level of Sesto Calende. This level was agreed upon between Italian and Swiss authorities within the framework of the Bilateral Body."},{"q":"What happens in case of water severity?","a":"In case of water severity, the summer maximum level of Lake Maggiore can be raised to +1.40 meters. However, this decision must be made in accordance with established procedures and with the involvement of Swiss authorities."},{"q":"What are the implications for cross-border workers?","a":"The rise in the level of Lake Maggiore can have implications for cross-border workers and residents along the lake shores. In particular, it can affect hydraulic safety and the use of public spaces. It is important to follow the instructions of the authorities and respect safety measures."}]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the ordinary maximum level of Lake Maggiore?
- The ordinary maximum level of Lake Maggiore is set at +1.35 meters above the zero hydrometric level of Sesto Calende. This level was agreed upon between Italian and Swiss authorities within the framework of the Bilateral Body.
- What happens in case of water severity?
- In case of water severity, the summer maximum level of Lake Maggiore can be raised to +1.40 meters. However, this decision must be made in accordance with established procedures and with the involvement of Swiss authorities.
- What are the implications for cross-border workers?
- The rise in the level of Lake Maggiore can have implications for cross-border workers and residents along the lake shores. In particular, it can affect hydraulic safety and the use of public spaces. It is important to follow the instructions of the authorities and respect safety measures.