Tourists relax during unusual flooding in Venice.

As is customary, every flood season, the beautiful canal city of Venice in northeastern Italy is submerged. But this year, the atta alta (rising water) phenomenon arrived as early as the beginning of August, catching the entire city off guard. This seems unusual, as in previous years, high water levels usually only occurred in the autumn and winter.

The flooding in Venice is due to a combination of factors stemming from climate change – a factor causing unusually high sea levels and tidal surges. Last fall, record-high water levels forced Venice to activate the Mose, a tidal barrier system consisting of dozens of floodgates installed offshore to prevent flooding. However, the system only activates when the tide is above 1.3 meters, and therefore proved ineffective in saving the city on the night of August 8th.

Although the water level wasn't high enough to activate the dikes, the rising tide was enough to easily flood San Marco Square – one of the city's lowest points. Fortunately, Venice reported no damage related to this flood, and a special system of pedestrian walkways was set up for residents and tourists to use. Visiting the square was largely unimpeded, and people leisurely enjoyed all the services that remained open. Many even relaxed, sipping tea, taking photos, posing, running around, and finding interesting activities to create lasting memories.

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