Hydrodynamics of Lake Lugano

Abstract

The hydrodynamic processes in the Lake of Lugano (Lago di Lugano) have been the object of three major measuring campaigns. The first during summer 1979 in the North Basin, the second in the autumn of 1984 in the South Basin and the last in 1989 again in the North Basin. It is expected that analysis of the collected data in conjunction with theoretical concepts will yield conclusive findings on the driving forces and hydrodynamics of the lake. Numerical models have been applied to the lake and the results have been compared to the measurements. Some models calculate the periods and distributions of amplitude, as well as surface velocities and internal seiches. Other models calculate wind-induced water circulation. Evidence is given to the peculiarities of the North Basin and the difficulties related with the depth-width ratio and with its deep chemical stratification.