Venice is experiencing its worst flooding in a decade, with three-quarters of the city underwater. Water levels reached 156cm above sea level at high tide, the fourth highest ever recorded. At least 10 people have died across Italy due to severe weather.
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, warning of severe weather in several regions including Veneto, where Venice is located. Tourists are urged to follow local authority advice. Schools and tourist sites, including St Mark's Square, have been closed.
Strong winds and high seas have disrupted transport, with the water bus system suspended except to outlying islands. The mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, said a planned underwater barrier system, known as Moses, could have prevented the flooding but has been delayed by cost overruns and corruption.
Bad weather is expected to continue throughout the week, with further disruption to transport and power supplies. The Interior Ministry has advised keeping schools and offices closed to ensure safety.
