What is the acqua alta phenomenon in Venice?

The acqua alta, or high water, is a regular occurrence in Venice between November and March, where high tides flood low-lying landmarks like St. Mark's Square, forcing locals and tourists to use temporary elevated walkways.

How does the Polar Night affect Svalbard, Norway?

During the Polar Night in Svalbard, the sun never rises more than six degrees above the horizon, plunging the region into perpetual darkness for months. Locals use headlamps to navigate the icy paths, while visitors may witness the stunning aurora borealis.

What is the Mistral wind in Provence, France?

The Mistral is a famous wind that blows through the Rhône Valley towards the Mediterranean, bringing chilly gusts of up to 100kph to the Provence region. Marseille residents often stay indoors when the Mistral hits, usually in the winter and early spring.

Home / Weather / Acqua Alta Floods Devastate Venice as Winter Approaches

Acqua Alta Floods Devastate Venice as Winter Approaches

24 Aug

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Summary

Acqua alta floods in Venice damage historic churches and monuments
Polar Night in Svalbard leaves region in perpetual darkness for months
Mistral wind brings chilly gusts up to 100kph to Provence in France

Acqua Alta Floods Devastate Venice as Winter Approaches

As the summer tourist crowds depart, Venice now faces another challenge - the acqua alta (high water) floods that typically occur between November and March. In November 2019, the water levels were so high that they flooded 80% of the city, causing damage to precious churches and monuments, including Palladio's Tablino.

Across the Nordic region, the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is also experiencing a unique winter phenomenon - Polar Night. From mid-November onwards, the sun never rises more than six degrees above the horizon, plunging the area into perpetual darkness. Locals use headlamps to navigate the icy paths, while tourists who brave the trip may be rewarded with the stunning sight of the aurora borealis.

Meanwhile, in Provence, France, the famous Mistral wind is blowing through the region, bringing chilly gusts of up to 100kph. Marseille residents are forced to stay indoors as the wind sweeps through the Rhône Valley towards the Mediterranean, making it a challenging time of year for the locals.

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