Two people have died as the highest water levels for more than 50 years generated hundreds of millions of euros of likely irreversible destruction in Venice.
On his part, Venice’s mayor announced a state of emergency after “apocalyptic” floods swept through the city, drowning its historic basilica and flooding squares and centuries-old buildings.
Roads were converted into roaring floods, marble balustrades were broken, vessels cast ashore and gondolas crushed against their moorings as the pool tide peaked at 187 cm (6ft 2ins) quickly before midnight.
It was the highest level since the record 194 cm set in 1966 but with rising water levels becoming a regular threat to the tourist jewel, city mayor Luigi Brugnaro was quick to blame climate change for the disaster,says Reuters.
“Venice is on its knees,” said Brugnaro. “The damage will run into hundreds of millions of euros.”
“This is the result of climate change,” he said on Twitter.The city further urged citizens and businesses to assemble proof of any harm to their properties had suffered so they could request compensation.
What's happening in Tunisia?
Subscribe to our Youtube channel for updates.
