Photos: Venice Canals Almost Dry Due to Water Level Drop

The dry winter weather has sparked concerns that Italy may face yet another drought. According to scientists and environmental groups, snowfall in the Alps has been 50% below normal this year.

At the same time, in Venice, where flooding is usually the main concern, water levels have dropped. In some of the famous canals, it has become impossible for gondolas, water taxis, and emergency service boats to navigate. This was reported by Armenpress, citing Reuters.

The environmental organization Legambiente has stated that rivers and lakes are experiencing severe water shortages. The water in the Po River, Italy's longest river, is 61% lower than normal for this time of year. Meanwhile, the water level in Lake Garda in northern Italy has dropped to a record low, and the island of San Biagio is now accessible via a path that has opened up.

According to Massimiliano Pasqui, an expert from the National Research Center, at least 50 days of rainfall are needed to restore the hydrological balance. Last July, Italy declared a state of emergency in areas surrounding the Po River due to the worst drought in 70 years.