For the third time in six months, Monaco's coastline suffers damage from high seas.
30th December, 19th February and most recently Tuesday 4th May, at around 4pm, the sea showed its capacity to cause havoc, when in just 20 minutes it wrecked several beaches. In Fontvieille port huge waves crashed over the jetty, shunting a 4x4 vehicle to within a foot of the water's edge.
Larvotto Beach was deluged by waves, which caused considerable damage to the Eastern section. Water flooded into business premises, destroying electrical appliances, causing damage to tables and chairs, and washing away loungers and parasols. The anti jellyfish nets were ripped from their moorings and the beach volley ball court was inundated. Firemen worked into the night to pump the water out, after the Minister of State spoke to business owners, and building inspectors assessed the damage, cost, and possible aid for those affected.
By far the worst devastation can be seen at the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel. Huge waves crashed onto the shore, uprooting trees, reaching as far as the hotel and the bar of Sea Lounge. 50 beach tents were swept away, furniture overturned, and concrete slabs dislodged. Monte Carlo SBM had only just fitted out the beach, hoping to avoid any possibility of rough seas. It had already replaced everything after February's storm damage.
The cost for SBM is estimated at 200,000 euros, and is a further reason for the company to once again push for the installation of a submerged breakwater to prevent future damage. A study was conducted for this a few years ago, estimating that around 2 million euros would be needed to install it. SBM would certainly be willing to invest the sum after the damage caused this year, however the money is not the problem. A consensus is needed between the French Ministry of Environment, the Prefecture of the Alpes Maritimes and the mayor of Roquebrune Cap Martin.
Links:
[1] http://www.monaco.mc/actuArticle.do?idArticle=124181
[2] http://www.nicematin.com/article/monaco/les-plages-de-la-principaute-ravagees-par-les-intemperies
[3] http://www.nicematin.com/article/monaco/le-«-beach-»-a-nouveau-devaste-par-un-coup-de-mer