Disastro di Molare

The Molare reservoir consists of a primary dam and a secondary structure, located within the mountainous terrain of northern Italy's Piedmont region.

On August 13, 1935, intense rainfall caused the collapse of the secondary dam, releasing 25 million cubic meters of water and mud through Valle Orba.

The disaster stands as a reference point in Italian engineering education, demonstrating the necessity of thorough geological studies before constructing water infrastructure.

Visitors can observe the remaining structure of the main dam and geological formations by following the divisional road leading to Olbicella.

The flood wave reached the village of Ovada within 20 minutes, traveling at high speed and altering the riverbed's depth permanently.

GPS coordinates: 44.56861,8.61528

Latest update: May 12, 2025 02:06