Low tide leaves Venice canals almost dry
STORY: Venice canals are almost dry after exceptionally low tides
making it impossible for gondolas, water taxis and ambulances to navigate some waterways
The problems in Venice are being blamed on a combination of factors
including lack of rain, a high-pressure system, a full moon and sea currents
Weeks of dry weather have raised fears of another drought after last summer's emergency
with the Alps having received less than half of their normal snowfall, according to environmental groups
Italy's longest river, the 'Po', has 61% less water than normal at this time of year
Last July Italy declared a state of emergency for areas surrounding the Po
which accounts for roughly a third of the country's agricultural production and suffered its worst drought for 70 years