Low Tides Leave Venice High And Dry As Weeks Without Rain Fan Fears Of Drought In Italy

Weeks of dry winter weather have raised concerns that Italy could face another drought after last summer's emergency, with the Alps having received less than half their normal snowfall, according to scientists and environmental groups.

Venice, where flooding is normally the primary concern, is experiencing unusually low tides that are making it impossible for gondolas, water taxis and ambulances to navigate some of its famous canals.

The problems in Venice are being blamed on a combination of factors - the lack of rain, a high-pressure system, a full moon and sea currents.

Italian rivers and lakes are suffering from a severe lack of water, the Legambiente environmental group said, with attention focused on the north of the country.