Real-time decision support system offers valuable insights for efficient operation of MOSE flood barriers

Venice is a unique city known all over the world, listed as one of the UNESCO heritage sites since 1987. Situated on the extremity of a closed-off part of the Adriatic Sea, part of the Mediterranean Sea, the lagoon is frequently subjected to the encumbrance of fluctuations in water levels where high water periodically floods the piazzas, and low water that can obstruct navigation due to shallower canals. 

Challenge

The protection of Venice from high water levels is a top priority. In that respect, the Italian Government initiated the MOSE (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico, Experimental Electromechanical Module) project to protect the city from flooding. The construction is made up of a complex system of 78 submerged gates which can be raised to separate the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea, in case of high water levels. ‘High-water events’ are defined as a water level higher than 110 cm in Venice city and 130 cm in Chioggia both with reference to local datum. Sea-level forecasting is a fundamental task for properly operating the gates and safeguarding the ancient city.

Solution

To support the operations at the MOSE gates, a complex Decision Support System has been set up by 'Provveditorato Interregionale per le Opere Pubbliche' through 'Consorzio Venezia Nuova', based on MIKE Powered by DHI’s MIKE OPERATIONS. The system is mainly composed of:

• specific procedures for multiple data collection, processing and storing
• a wide range of numerical models based on MIKE Powered by DHI technology incorporating machine learning
• a dedicated decision support system based on complex algorithms capable to forecast high water levels events and continuously update the data, defining the correct timing for closing and opening the gates
• a wide range of tools for data as warning dissemination, including a specific web interface
• an expert graphical user interface for the configuration of an advance management of the system

Results

The implementation of DHI's solution has proven to be an effective measure in safeguarding Venice from high water levels, ensuring:

• Accurate forecasts of high water levels events
• Decision support for operating the MOSE gates
• Automatic dissemination of information and warnings