Italian farmers are preparing to protect their crops and trees with smart irrigation systems. But despite all the efforts to save water, the region is still set to struggle if rains don't arrive on time.

Italy's effort to make crops more resilient to drought risk

The shortage of rainfall due to global warming and droughts pose a threat to operations in the Panama Canal. The Panama canal is one of the most crucial waterways in the world. The ongoing water crisis threatens the future of this maritime route. Here are two artificial lakes in Panama's colony of colon- Alajuela and gatun. These have been depleted due to a lack of rainfall. As a result, Panamanian canal authority limited the largest ships passing through the canal for the fifth time during this drought season.

Panama Canal operations at risk as feeder lakes run dry

Climate change is triggering extreme weather in large parts of Europe. This is leading to extended periods of dry spells, and Italy is the latest country to face the heat. It is going to experience its 2nd year of severe droughts and lake Garda in northern Italy has dropped to its lowest levels in 70 years. Last year, Italy's lakes helped ease the drought. This year, chances look bleak. As per a researcher at the Italian National Research Council, water in lake Garda, which flows into the river Po, is below half the normal levels.

Italy faces 2nd straight year of droughts, worst in 70 years

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem succeeded in developing tomato varieties capable of producing a high yield even during extreme drought conditions, according to a study published in the journal PNAS. Doctoral student Shai Torgeman and Professor Dani Zamir from HU's Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment in Rehovot led the study "Epistatic QTLs for yield heterosis in tomato."

According to the researchers, the higher yield was due to interactions between two regions of the tomato genome. Furthermore, they concluded the new tomato variety consumes less water and increases its production in extreme weather conditions. The research was a part of the scientific cooperation with the European Union in the Horizon 2020 programme.

Another study shows that more than half of Israelis like tomatoes in their salads. Moreover, 18 per cent say they eat plain tomatoes and 11 per cent like cooked tomatoes into shakshuka. However, tomatoes will not be available in the market as the climate gets hotter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/science/lyrids-meteor-shower-2023-a-complete-guide-on-when-where-how-to-see-it-583706">Lyrids meteor shower 2023: A complete guide on when, where &amp; how to see it</a>

The research results proved the effectiveness of cultivating plants in agriculture using wild species. The distinctive structure of the new population enabled the precise mapping of the genes in tomatoes and the identification of mutual effects. It established the potential for comprehensive application in other plants and improving yield.&nbsp;

Tomatoes grown in open field conditions need protection from pests. They need nutrition and regular watering. However, climate change and severe water scarcity demand alternate varieties and modern cultivation methods.

WATCH |&nbsp;AI chatbot helps Snap Inc bring more users | World Business Watch | WION

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The researchers crossbred two types of tomato species, Solanum pennellii and Solanum lycopersicum. One is a green-fruited and drought-tolerant wild tomato from the deserts of western Peru, and another is a modern processing tomato inbred. They identified the regions of the genome that affect agricultural traits such as yield. Prof Zamir carried out DNA sequencing and extensive data analysis of 1,400 plants. He noted, "Our integrated breeding efforts unite classical and genomics-assisted methods to demonstrate those yield barriers are only there to be broken."

Torgeman explained, "Studies of complex traits in plants such as yield and resistance to drought conditions have been based on significantly smaller populations of about 200 species." According to the research findings, two regions on the different chromosomes yielded a 20 to 50 per cent increase in overall tomato production under irrigated and drought conditions. "Now, based on the published knowledge, we are cultivating new varieties with the aim of commercialising them on the food market," Torgeman concluded. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem succeeded in developing tomato varieties capable of producing a high yield even during extreme drought conditions, according to a study published in the journal PNAS.

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem succeeded in developing tomato varieties capable of producing a high yield even during extreme drought conditions, according to a study published in the journal PNAS. Doctoral student Shai Torgeman and Professor Dani Zamir from HU's Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment in Rehovot led the study "Epistatic QTLs for yield heterosis in tomato." According to the researchers, the higher yield was due to interactions between two regions of the tomato genome. Furthermore, they concluded the new tomato variety consumes less water and increases its production in extreme weather conditions. The research was a part of the scientific cooperation with the European Union in the Horizon 2020 programme. Another study shows that more than half of Israelis like tomatoes in their salads. Moreover, 18 per cent say they eat plain tomatoes and 11 per cent like cooked tomatoes into shakshuka. However, tomatoes will not be available in the market as the climate gets hotter. ALSO READ | Lyrids meteor shower 2023: A complete guide on when, where & how to see it The research results proved the effectiveness of cultivating plants in agriculture using wild species. The distinctive structure of the new population enabled the precise mapping of the genes in tomatoes and the identification of mutual effects. It established the potential for comprehensive application in other plants and improving yield. Tomatoes grown in open field conditions need protection from pests. They need nutrition and regular watering. However, climate change and severe water scarcity demand alternate varieties and modern cultivation methods. WATCH | AI chatbot helps Snap Inc bring more users | World Business Watch | WION The researchers crossbred two types of tomato species, Solanum pennellii and Solanum lycopersicum. One is a green-fruited and drought-tolerant wild tomato from the deserts of western Peru, and another is a modern processing tomato inbred. They identified the regions of the genome that affect agricultural traits such as yield. Prof Zamir carried out DNA sequencing and extensive data analysis of 1,400 plants. He noted, "Our integrated breeding efforts unite classical and genomics-assisted methods to demonstrate those yield barriers are only there to be broken." Torgeman explained, "Studies of complex traits in plants such as yield and resistance to drought conditions have been based on significantly smaller populations of about 200 species." According to the research findings, two regions on the different chromosomes yielded a 20 to 50 per cent increase in overall tomato production under irrigated and drought conditions. "Now, based on the published knowledge, we are cultivating new varieties with the aim of commercialising them on the food market," Torgeman concluded. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli researchers develop tomatoes capable of growing in extreme drought-like conditions

A global study has found flash droughts are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Scientists say it's down to a lack of rainfall and a loss of moisture in soil.

Flash droughts besieging the Planet

France's first major forest fire devours 1,000 hectares

Japan climate group calls for reforms. Somalia hit by drought, displaces around 1.4 million Somalis. Watch to know more.

Japan climate group calls for reforms; Somalia hit by climate crisis

Reservoirs whose water levels had plummeted during punishing drought have recovered, but officials warn to not waste water. Hem Soraya brings you the report.

Storms dramatically fill reservoirs in California

The intensity of extreme drought and rainfall has "sharply" increased over the past two decades. That's what a new study has confirmed. Rohit Wellington brings you the report.

Flooding & droughts to happen more often: Study

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year.

SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect.

Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change.

Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum.

The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months.

Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger.

The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy.

The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record.

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year. SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect. Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change. Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum. The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months. Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger. The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy. The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisia: Public water supply to be cut overnight due to drought, fine and jail for wastage

One of the most prominent issues in climate change is water scarcity. Over the years many countries have witnessed a series of droughts. But a recent report has shed light on the growing problem of water scarcity in Europe.

Experts: Water situation in Europe is 'very precarious'

Kenyans were preparing for a fresh round of anti-government protests over the increasing cost of living on Monday after the opposition promised to take action even after a police ban.

Veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga appealed to citizens to take to the streets every Thursday and Monday, a week after the protests had turned violent and various parts of Nairobi were paralysed.

However, on Sunday, the police announced a ban on the rallies. "We will not allow violent demonstrations," said Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome.

"The demonstrations they plan tomorrow (Monday) are illegal and will not be allowed,” he added.

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A university student was killed and 31 officers had suffered injuries in a police fire during the previous Monday's clashes as running battles took place between demonstrators and riot police in Nairobi as well as opposition strongholds in western Kenya.

Police arrested around 200 people which included various senior opposition politicians while protesters, including their own convoy of Odinga, were hit with water cannons and tear gas.

This was the first major political unrest since incumbent President William Ruto came to power around six months ago after Odinga was defeated in an election that his rivals alleged was "stolen".

Even after the police ban, Odinga appealed to the Kenyans on Sunday to take part in what he called “the mother of all demonstrations".

"I want to tell Ruto and the IG Koome that we are not going to be intimidated. We are not going to fear tear gas and police,” he added. President Ruto appealed to his rival to stop the action.

"I am telling Raila Odinga that if he has a problem with me, he should face me and stop terrorising the country," he stated on Thursday.

WATCH | Kenya: Opposition leader Odinga vows to hold protest rally despite ban

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"Stop paralysing the businesses of mama mboga, matatu and other Kenyans," he added, referring to private minibus operators and women stallholders.

On Monday, Ruto will be leaving for a four-day official trip to Belgium and Germany during which he will hold meetings with EU and national leaders.

Kenyans have been struggling to buy food by the end of the day as they are battling soaring prices for basic goods and declining local currency along with a record which has left millions hungry.

<main>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Kenyans were preparing for a fresh round of anti-government protests over the increasing cost of living on Monday after the opposition promised to take action even after a police ban.

Kenyans were preparing for a fresh round of anti-government protests over the increasing cost of living on Monday after the opposition promised to take action even after a police ban. Veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga appealed to citizens to take to the streets every Thursday and Monday, a week after the protests had turned violent and various parts of Nairobi were paralysed. However, on Sunday, the police announced a ban on the rallies. "We will not allow violent demonstrations," said Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome. "The demonstrations they plan tomorrow (Monday) are illegal and will not be allowed,” he added. ALSO READ | Kenya to solve its alcohol problem with 'one bar per town' plan A university student was killed and 31 officers had suffered injuries in a police fire during the previous Monday's clashes as running battles took place between demonstrators and riot police in Nairobi as well as opposition strongholds in western Kenya. Police arrested around 200 people which included various senior opposition politicians while protesters, including their own convoy of Odinga, were hit with water cannons and tear gas. This was the first major political unrest since incumbent President William Ruto came to power around six months ago after Odinga was defeated in an election that his rivals alleged was "stolen". Even after the police ban, Odinga appealed to the Kenyans on Sunday to take part in what he called “the mother of all demonstrations". "I want to tell Ruto and the IG Koome that we are not going to be intimidated. We are not going to fear tear gas and police,” he added. President Ruto appealed to his rival to stop the action. "I am telling Raila Odinga that if he has a problem with me, he should face me and stop terrorising the country," he stated on Thursday. WATCH | Kenya: Opposition leader Odinga vows to hold protest rally despite ban "Stop paralysing the businesses of mama mboga, matatu and other Kenyans," he added, referring to private minibus operators and women stallholders. On Monday, Ruto will be leaving for a four-day official trip to Belgium and Germany during which he will hold meetings with EU and national leaders. Kenyans have been struggling to buy food by the end of the day as they are battling soaring prices for basic goods and declining local currency along with a record which has left millions hungry. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Kenya prepares for fresh protests amid police ban

Somalia is facing one of the worst droughts in decades. Reports say over 34,000 Somalians will die due to hunger in the first six months of this year. Are countries sending enough aid? Is the media ignoring the crisis in Somalia? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Somalia hit with drought & famine

A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis.

It added that half of these deaths might have occurred among children under the age of 5.

To allow proactive intervention and prevent drought-related mortality, a model was also created from the same study for the first time. According to the forecasts, which covers January through June 2023, 135 people might die&nbsp;every day as a result of the crisis, with the total number of fatalities predicted to range between 18,100 and 34,200 over this time in these six months.&nbsp;

These projections imply that, despite the fact that hunger has been temporarily avoided, the crisis is still ongoing and has already surpassed the drought disaster of 2017–2018 in severity.

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These numbers were obtained using a statistical model that predicted that, between January and December 2022, the crude death rate in Somalia went from 0.33 to 0.38 fatalities per 10,000 person-days. It also revealed that&nbsp;the rate among children under the age of five was nearly twice as high. By June 2023, the crude death rate is anticipated to be 0.42 deaths for every 10,000 person-days.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Imperial College London carried out the study, which was commissioned by UNICEF Regional Office and WHO country office of Somalia.&nbsp;

It gives retrospective estimates of mortality across Somalia from January to December 2022. The areas around the Bay, Bakool, and Banadir regions of south-central Somalia, which are currently the epicentre of the drought, were thought to have the greatest fatality rates.

Somalian Minister of Health Dr Ali Hadji Adam Abubakar said, “We continue to be concerned about the level and scale of the public health impact of this deepening and protracted food crisis in Somalia. At the same time, we are optimistic that if we can sustain our ongoing and scaled-up health and nutrition actions and humanitarian response to save lives and protect the health of our vulnerable, we can push back the risk of famine forever."

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"Else, those vulnerable and marginalized will pay the price of this crisis with their lives. We, therefore, urge all our partners and donors to continue to support the health sector in building a resilient health system that works for everyone and not for the few. Building a healthier and happier world for all Somalis remains at the heart of our government," he added.&nbsp;

This is the worst drought in recent history in Somalia. It is continuing for five seasons in a row and has left five million people in severe food insecurity and nearly two million children at danger of malnutrition. In order to provide for 7.6 million people's needs in 2023, the UN will need to raise more than US$2.6 billion.

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WHO Representative to Somalia and Head of Mission, Dr Mamunur Rahman Malik said, “We are racing against time to prevent deaths and save lives that are avoidable. We have seen, deaths and diseases thrive when hunger and food crises prolong. We will see more people dying from the disease than from hunger and malnutrition combined if we do not act now. The cost of our inaction will mean that children, women and other vulnerable people will pay with their lives while we hopelessly, helplessly witness the tragedy unfold.”

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A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis.

A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis. It added that half of these deaths might have occurred among children under the age of 5. To allow proactive intervention and prevent drought-related mortality, a model was also created from the same study for the first time. According to the forecasts, which covers January through June 2023, 135 people might die every day as a result of the crisis, with the total number of fatalities predicted to range between 18,100 and 34,200 over this time in these six months. These projections imply that, despite the fact that hunger has been temporarily avoided, the crisis is still ongoing and has already surpassed the drought disaster of 2017–2018 in severity. Also Read | Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline These numbers were obtained using a statistical model that predicted that, between January and December 2022, the crude death rate in Somalia went from 0.33 to 0.38 fatalities per 10,000 person-days. It also revealed that the rate among children under the age of five was nearly twice as high. By June 2023, the crude death rate is anticipated to be 0.42 deaths for every 10,000 person-days. The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Imperial College London carried out the study, which was commissioned by UNICEF Regional Office and WHO country office of Somalia. It gives retrospective estimates of mortality across Somalia from January to December 2022. The areas around the Bay, Bakool, and Banadir regions of south-central Somalia, which are currently the epicentre of the drought, were thought to have the greatest fatality rates. Somalian Minister of Health Dr Ali Hadji Adam Abubakar said, “We continue to be concerned about the level and scale of the public health impact of this deepening and protracted food crisis in Somalia. At the same time, we are optimistic that if we can sustain our ongoing and scaled-up health and nutrition actions and humanitarian response to save lives and protect the health of our vulnerable, we can push back the risk of famine forever." Also Read | China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions "Else, those vulnerable and marginalized will pay the price of this crisis with their lives. We, therefore, urge all our partners and donors to continue to support the health sector in building a resilient health system that works for everyone and not for the few. Building a healthier and happier world for all Somalis remains at the heart of our government," he added. This is the worst drought in recent history in Somalia. It is continuing for five seasons in a row and has left five million people in severe food insecurity and nearly two million children at danger of malnutrition. In order to provide for 7.6 million people's needs in 2023, the UN will need to raise more than US$2.6 billion. Watch | 'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement WHO Representative to Somalia and Head of Mission, Dr Mamunur Rahman Malik said, “We are racing against time to prevent deaths and save lives that are avoidable. We have seen, deaths and diseases thrive when hunger and food crises prolong. We will see more people dying from the disease than from hunger and malnutrition combined if we do not act now. The cost of our inaction will mean that children, women and other vulnerable people will pay with their lives while we hopelessly, helplessly witness the tragedy unfold.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

43,000 'excess deaths' in Somalia last year from drought, half may be children under five

Drought is battering Somalia. The country is facing five consecutive failed rainfall seasons. Shivan Chanana tells you about a report that states last year 43,000 people died in Somalia due to it.

Somalia drought killed 43,000 last year, study finds | WION Climate Tracker

The drying up of a lake in France is ringing alarm bells all across Western Europe. Shivan Chanana tells how France's lake Montbel, famous for its turquoise waters, massive size and thriving aquatic life is drying up due to the winter drought.

Winter drought dries up France's lake Montbel | WION Climate Tracker

Climate change is causing successive years of drought, forcing rural families in the horn of Africa deeper into poverty and hunger, and that's according to the United Nations. In Kenya, women who would normally work in agriculture, are resorting to grueling labour to keep their children fed and in school. here's a report.

World of Africa: Women crush ballast to make ends meet

Temperatures in more than a dozen major Chinese cities last week reached record highs for the season. Temperatures in Wuhan and Zhengzhou in central China rose by more than 10 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit) and were higher than the usual for early March, according to government data.

Extreme weather in China is breaking record temperatures in some drought-stricken regions of the country. The temperatures are being exacerbated by the climate change crisis.&nbsp;

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Wuhan, located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze river, experienced temperatures of 26 degree Celsius on Monday, 12 degrees higher than the long-term early March normal, while Beijing and adjacent cities also saw the temperatures hit 22-25 degree Celsius earlier this week.

China saw a summer of harsh weather last year as well, with hundreds of millions being impacted by the country's highest rainfall in 60 years. What followed was a terrible heat wave that dried out rivers.&nbsp;

Last year, China suffered months of intense heat, with 267 weather stations recording temperatures over 40 degrees. It roasted a large portion of southern China for at least 70 continuous days and affected the whole Yangtze river valley, starting fires and destroying crops.

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The nation's meteorological service has previously forewarned residents that 2023 will likely bring more severe weather as a result of climate change.

Yunnan, a significant hydropower hub in the southwest, is already experiencing a severe drought that is expected to endure through April.&nbsp;

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Since November of last year, average rainfall has been more than 60% below average.

The Poyang, China's largest freshwater lake has also been unable to recover from last year's drought. On Monday, the lake's water levels fell once more below 7 metres, not far from a record low. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Temperatures in more than a dozen major Chinese cities last week reached record highs for the season. Temperatures in Wuhan and Zhengzhou in central China rose by more than 10 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit) and were higher than the usual for early March, according to government data.

Temperatures in more than a dozen major Chinese cities last week reached record highs for the season. Temperatures in Wuhan and Zhengzhou in central China rose by more than 10 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit) and were higher than the usual for early March, according to government data. Extreme weather in China is breaking record temperatures in some drought-stricken regions of the country. The temperatures are being exacerbated by the climate change crisis. Also Read | In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India Wuhan, located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze river, experienced temperatures of 26 degree Celsius on Monday, 12 degrees higher than the long-term early March normal, while Beijing and adjacent cities also saw the temperatures hit 22-25 degree Celsius earlier this week. China saw a summer of harsh weather last year as well, with hundreds of millions being impacted by the country's highest rainfall in 60 years. What followed was a terrible heat wave that dried out rivers. Last year, China suffered months of intense heat, with 267 weather stations recording temperatures over 40 degrees. It roasted a large portion of southern China for at least 70 continuous days and affected the whole Yangtze river valley, starting fires and destroying crops. Also Read | Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world The nation's meteorological service has previously forewarned residents that 2023 will likely bring more severe weather as a result of climate change. Yunnan, a significant hydropower hub in the southwest, is already experiencing a severe drought that is expected to endure through April. Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve Since November of last year, average rainfall has been more than 60% below average. The Poyang, China's largest freshwater lake has also been unable to recover from last year's drought. On Monday, the lake's water levels fell once more below 7 metres, not far from a record low. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China hits record high temperatures for early March, drought-like conditions in several parts

Venice has often been described as a beautiful oddity and rightfully so. The Italian city built on over 100 islands and crisscrossed by 177 canals and which was once at risk of drowning is now running dry. This has been attributed to weeks of dry winter weather while scientists and environmental groups have raised concerns that this could signal another drought in the European country after last summer’s emergency.&nbsp;

What is happening in Venice?

The Italian city, famous for its gondolas, has also been suffering alongside the country’s rivers and lakes which are also witnessing a severe lack of water. The problems in Venice have been attributed to a combination of factors ranging from a prolonged spell of low tides, lack of rain and a high-pressure system to even a full moon and sea currents.

Consequently, this has led to frustrated boat crews and worried officials as ambulances are unable to navigate through some of its narrower canals. This has become particularly problematic since the famous waterways serve as streets in car-less Venice.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Associated Press, ambulance boats, in certain areas of the city, had to be left tied up farther from their destination. This forced medical personnel to lift stretchers over long distances since their vessels cannot pass through canals reduced to a trickle of water and mud.&nbsp;

Last week, a series of images out of Venice showed pools of water collected in some canals and parked gondolas alongside exposed foundations of several buildings. This also meant that tourists could not navigate some secondary waterways in the Italian city. Notably, boats continued to work in some of the wider waterways across Venice which included the Grand and Giudecca canals.

A sustainable development analyst with the environmental advocacy group, We Are Here Venice, Jane Da Mosto has attributed this phenomenon in the Italian city to a combination of high atmospheric pressure with the lunar cycle producing an ultra-low water level during ebb tide, during mid-winter, reported AP. She also said how this phenomenon highlights the need for cleaning Venice’s inner canal network which is often overlooked.&nbsp;

“It's an absolutely normal phenomenon,” said Alvise Papa, the head of Venice’s tide forecasting centre to AFP, on Tuesday. He added, “Low tides are not enough to dry up the canals, but this year they are accompanied by high atmospheric pressure, which prevents bad weather”. Venice was expected to return to normalcy sometime this week.&nbsp;

Experts raise concern over Italy’s rivers and lakes&nbsp;

As Venice continues to grapple with the dire situation of its waterways, the rest of the country is not faring well either. In the past few days, scientists and experts, in the context of the situation of Venice’s canals have indicated that the country may face another drought. In a statement, on Monday, one of the largest environmental NGOs in Italy, the Legambiente said rivers and lakes, particularly in the north of the country are in “distress” due to the severe lack of water.&nbsp;

In this context, scientists have also referred to the Alps which received less than half of their normal snowfall. The aforementioned high-pressure system compounded by scarce Alpine snow melt this year has also contributed to the lack of water in lakes and rivers in northern Italy in the past few weeks.&nbsp;

The lack of snow this year has also been a concern since there was 53 per cent less in the Alps, particularly in the Po basin. Consequently, the Po, Italy’s longest river which runs from the Alps in the northwest to the Adriatic Sea also received 61 per cent less water than it typically does around this time of the year, said the environmental advocacy citing data from CIMA Research Foundation.&nbsp;

Notably, the aforementioned river accounts for roughly a third of the country's agricultural production. The statement also warned about the cascading effects of a prolonged drought in Italy which included, the lack of water for civil, agricultural and industrial uses that would, in turn, lead to loss of biodiversity, lower yields of crops, and disturb the balance of natural ecosystems.&nbsp;

This also comes as an anticyclone has been dominating the weather in western Europe for the past 15 days or so, which has led to an increase in the number of mild temperatures typically witnessed in late spring, as per Reuters. Additionally, the record low water levels in Lake Garda, in northern Italy, made it possible to reach the small island of San Biagio. Earlier this month, a small pathway which links the shore to the island re-emerged and visitors were able to walk across the middle of the lake.&nbsp;

“We are in a water deficit situation that has been building up since the winter of 2020-2021,” said climate expert Massimiliano Pasqui, from the National Research Council (CNR), as per Italian newspaper, Corriere della Sera. The country requires 500 millimetres of rain in the north-western regions over 50 days in order to recover, he added, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Italy’s state of emergency over droughts&nbsp;

Last year, Italy declared a state of emergency in five northern regions which included areas surrounding the river Po which was facing its worst drought in 70 years. The government placed Emilia-Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Piedmont and Veneto under emergency and announced a relief fund of $38 million to help tackle the water shortage.&nbsp;

The phenomenon had been attributed to an unusually early heatwave and a lack of rainfall, particularly in the Po valley. Additionally, Lakes Maggiore and Garda had witnessed lower levels of water than typically expected at that time of the year while the levels of the Tiber River, which runs through Rome had also dropped.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Venice has often been described as a beautiful oddity and rightfully so. The Italian city built on over 100 islands and crisscrossed by 177 canals and which was once at risk of drowning is now running dry.

Venice has often been described as a beautiful oddity and rightfully so. The Italian city built on over 100 islands and crisscrossed by 177 canals and which was once at risk of drowning is now running dry. This has been attributed to weeks of dry winter weather while scientists and environmental groups have raised concerns that this could signal another drought in the European country after last summer’s emergency. What is happening in Venice? The Italian city, famous for its gondolas, has also been suffering alongside the country’s rivers and lakes which are also witnessing a severe lack of water. The problems in Venice have been attributed to a combination of factors ranging from a prolonged spell of low tides, lack of rain and a high-pressure system to even a full moon and sea currents. Consequently, this has led to frustrated boat crews and worried officials as ambulances are unable to navigate through some of its narrower canals. This has become particularly problematic since the famous waterways serve as streets in car-less Venice. According to a report by the Associated Press, ambulance boats, in certain areas of the city, had to be left tied up farther from their destination. This forced medical personnel to lift stretchers over long distances since their vessels cannot pass through canals reduced to a trickle of water and mud. Last week, a series of images out of Venice showed pools of water collected in some canals and parked gondolas alongside exposed foundations of several buildings. This also meant that tourists could not navigate some secondary waterways in the Italian city. Notably, boats continued to work in some of the wider waterways across Venice which included the Grand and Giudecca canals. A sustainable development analyst with the environmental advocacy group, We Are Here Venice, Jane Da Mosto has attributed this phenomenon in the Italian city to a combination of high atmospheric pressure with the lunar cycle producing an ultra-low water level during ebb tide, during mid-winter, reported AP. She also said how this phenomenon highlights the need for cleaning Venice’s inner canal network which is often overlooked. “It's an absolutely normal phenomenon,” said Alvise Papa, the head of Venice’s tide forecasting centre to AFP, on Tuesday. He added, “Low tides are not enough to dry up the canals, but this year they are accompanied by high atmospheric pressure, which prevents bad weather”. Venice was expected to return to normalcy sometime this week. Experts raise concern over Italy’s rivers and lakes As Venice continues to grapple with the dire situation of its waterways, the rest of the country is not faring well either. In the past few days, scientists and experts, in the context of the situation of Venice’s canals have indicated that the country may face another drought. In a statement, on Monday, one of the largest environmental NGOs in Italy, the Legambiente said rivers and lakes, particularly in the north of the country are in “distress” due to the severe lack of water. In this context, scientists have also referred to the Alps which received less than half of their normal snowfall. The aforementioned high-pressure system compounded by scarce Alpine snow melt this year has also contributed to the lack of water in lakes and rivers in northern Italy in the past few weeks. The lack of snow this year has also been a concern since there was 53 per cent less in the Alps, particularly in the Po basin. Consequently, the Po, Italy’s longest river which runs from the Alps in the northwest to the Adriatic Sea also received 61 per cent less water than it typically does around this time of the year, said the environmental advocacy citing data from CIMA Research Foundation. Notably, the aforementioned river accounts for roughly a third of the country's agricultural production. The statement also warned about the cascading effects of a prolonged drought in Italy which included, the lack of water for civil, agricultural and industrial uses that would, in turn, lead to loss of biodiversity, lower yields of crops, and disturb the balance of natural ecosystems. This also comes as an anticyclone has been dominating the weather in western Europe for the past 15 days or so, which has led to an increase in the number of mild temperatures typically witnessed in late spring, as per Reuters. Additionally, the record low water levels in Lake Garda, in northern Italy, made it possible to reach the small island of San Biagio. Earlier this month, a small pathway which links the shore to the island re-emerged and visitors were able to walk across the middle of the lake. “We are in a water deficit situation that has been building up since the winter of 2020-2021,” said climate expert Massimiliano Pasqui, from the National Research Council (CNR), as per Italian newspaper, Corriere della Sera. The country requires 500 millimetres of rain in the north-western regions over 50 days in order to recover, he added, reported Reuters. Italy’s state of emergency over droughts Last year, Italy declared a state of emergency in five northern regions which included areas surrounding the river Po which was facing its worst drought in 70 years. The government placed Emilia-Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Piedmont and Veneto under emergency and announced a relief fund of $38 million to help tackle the water shortage. The phenomenon had been attributed to an unusually early heatwave and a lack of rainfall, particularly in the Po valley. Additionally, Lakes Maggiore and Garda had witnessed lower levels of water than typically expected at that time of the year while the levels of the Tiber River, which runs through Rome had also dropped. (With inputs from agencies)

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