Author(s): Michele Mossa PhD

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Keywords: Hydrology; hydrological risk; floods; rains; anthropogenic action; Bari

Abstract: In this paper, the historic floods in the city of Bari, Italy, are analyzed and compared to the recent flood of October 2005. The objective is to point out the role of anthropogenic action and poor planning in the amplification of territory risks. The studied zone is highly permeable and is characterized by a drainage network which is not always defined. It is constructed of numerous natural incisions which, locally, are called “lame”. The main hydraulic characteristics of floods are described evidencing the effect of ungovernable and chaotic anthropogenic impact, that, being united with incorrect planning, result in catastrophic events. A high level of attention must always be given to the protection of the territory in order to avoid high risk situations. Once hydraulic operations are carried out they must be maintained in order to continue their efficiency which cannot be put to risk by poor territorial planning.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00221686.2007.9521795

Year: 2007