Venice Experiences Highest Tide In Over 50 Years

Venice has experienced its highest tide in over 50 years, leaving much of the city's historic sights and streets under water. The tide eventually peaked at 1.87 meters, its highest level since 1966 when it swelled to 1.94 meters, according to data from Città di Venezia. Saint Mark's square was lying under more than a meter of water last night while Saint Mark's Basilica was flooded for only the sixth time in 1,200 years. Four of those occurred in the past two decades.

Tables and chairs were seen floating in the water outside cafes and restaurants while water taxies on the Grand Canal struggled to drop tourists off at their hotels, many of whom had to clamber through windows. Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said he would declare a state of disaster and that the flood would "leave a permanent mark". He blamed the situation on climate change and has asked for government assistance.