Italian Venice is facing record floods, half of the city will be underwater

Venice - The rising sea level is expected to cause record floods in Venice in the coming days. Already, part of the historic center is underwater, as the level in the lagoon has risen 105 centimeters above normal. However, it is expected to rise up to 140 centimeters tonight, which would mean half of the city would be flooded, reported the ANSA agency.
    The phenomenon of "aqua alta" (high water), which refers to regular floods threatening the city several times a year, is perceived by the residents as a normal part of life. The city hall is prepared for them and always installs temporary walkways in affected areas in advance, allowing people to move around with dry feet. However, if the water rises higher than usual, the regular measures are not enough.
    "The peak will come on the night of Thursday and on Thursday morning," announced the head of the flood commission, Paolo Canestrelli. An anticipated rise in water level of 140 centimeters would flood half of the city, with water approximately waist-high in the ground floors of buildings.
    The most devastating floods known as "aqua alta" struck Venice on November 4, 1966, when the sea flooded the city to a height of 194 centimeters. At the same time, floods were causing extraordinary damage in other parts of Italy as well. Currently, rainy weather is also worsening the situation, with heavy rainfall expected on Thursday.