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| In the wake of very dangerous flooding, these two smarties go for a swim! |
Authorities in Venice say 70 percent of Venice is currently underwater, according to Reuters. Water levels rose as much as 5ft above average yesterday, which makes it the city's sixth-worst flood on record.
The severe flooding appears to have been caused by a combination of heavy rain and strong winds, which drove water into the lagoon on which Venice is built and created a storm surge, similiar to what New Yorkers faces with Hurricane Sandy a few weeks ago.
In fact, the severe storms have caused over 200 people to evacuate Northern Italy - a number that is expected to grow.
In addition, Venice is sinking at a rate of about 2mm a year, which scientists put down to the constant extraction of water from below ground.
A system of floating dams designed to protect Venice from high waters is currently under construction, at a cost of around €6 billion ($7.8 billion). Unfortunately it is due to be completed within the next four years.
In light of the tragedies faced in the United States recently due to Hurricane Sandy, we should all keep the people of Italy and particular those in Venice in our prayers.
And though I found the photographs of the individuals bathing or taking a swim in the mucky Venitian waters, they did put their lives at risk . . . and that is not necessary.Remember - whatever you do in storm conditions - Mother Nature has a nasty side to her.
- Peter Thomas Senese -
