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Venice submerged in record-setting flood water

More than 80 per cent of Venice, Italy is submerged, as flood waters rise during high tide. Nov. 15 saw the second highest tide in the city since 1966, reaching 187 cm. The government has declared a state of emergency. Many shops and schools are closed, as well as landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square.

There are 50,000 residents who live in Venice year-round, and while tourists are still seen posing in the streets and taking selfies, Venetians are expressing worry that the flooding has got worse in the last 20 years. Some experts anticipate Venice could be completely underwater in the next 100 years.

“We have been in this emergency for days and we just can’t put up with it any more,” said Venetian resident Nava Naccara to Reuters.

According to a video released by Mayor Luigi Brugnaro, it could cost up to €1 billion to repair the damage to the city.