One of the great cities of Europe has been inundated again by wind-driven high tides. Although not a new phenomenon, this event over the last 48 hours falls just inches short of the record high in 1966. Locals were seen struggling through the thigh high water that caused considerable damage to many structures, water craft, including the fabled gondolas, and ferry boats. The Mayor of Venice declared a state of emergency as most water borne craft were unable to pass under the many bridges linking canals with the islands and the mainland approaches to the city.
The Mayor of Tahoma was just in Venice only 2 1/2 weeks ago. The weather was beautiful, warm, and pleasant in all respects. Stacked duckboards were in evidence around St. Mark's Square, looking like remnants from a concert stage recently taken down. This time, they offered little relief from the tides. The much touted "gate system" has not been completed as per the design. The rumors include reports that the design is flawed and won't accomplish the goals sought by the government. Time will tell if changes will be made, or the project will be abandoned as it stands. The high costs will certainly warrant discussion about the future of the design as tides are expected to continue to rise over the next 100 years.
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