Major Floods Hit Venice: Thousands Evacuated as Storm Surges Hit Historic City

On April 25, 2024, Venice, Italy experienced severe flooding as intense storm surges caused an unprecedented rise in water levels throughout the city. Authorities reported that the Acqua Alta reached record heights, submerging iconic streets and landmarks and forcing thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate.

Details of the Flooding Event

The flooding began late in the evening and continued overnight, with water levels rising up to 1.8 meters above normal. Venice’s mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, declared a state of emergency and requested immediate assistance from regional and national governments. Emergency services worked tirelessly to evacuate affected individuals and provide aid.

Causes and Vulnerability

Experts attribute the flooding to a combination of strong Adriatic Sea winds and unusually high spring tides. Climate scientists warn that such extreme events could become more frequent due to the ongoing impacts of climate change. Venice’s unique geography makes it especially vulnerable to rising sea levels and storm surges.

Impact on the City

• Residents were urged to seek higher ground and avoid travel.
• Key areas affected included St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge vicinity.
• Many shops and homes suffered water damage.
• Public transportation, including water buses (vaporetti), was heavily disrupted.

Response and Recovery Efforts

The ongoing maintenance of Venice’s flood defense system, MOSE, limited its effectiveness during this storm. The Italian government has promised emergency funds for recovery, and volunteers are distributing essentials to affected communities. The tourism sector, a major economic contributor, is preparing for financial setbacks due to the decline in visitors.

Future Measures

The City Council plans to enhance flood preparedness and infrastructure resilience. The recent event has also reignited calls for accelerated environmental policies and investments to protect Venice from future climate risks.

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