Summary
Another exceptional high tide swamped flood-hit Venice Friday, prompting the mayor to order St. Mark's square closed after Italy declared a state of emergency for the UNESCO city. Luigi Brugnaro ordered the iconic square closed as the latest sea surge struck with strong storms and winds battering the region.
The crisis, driven by bad weather, has prompted the government to release 20 million euros in funds to tackle the devastation.
Surveying the damage, Culture Minister Dario Franceschini warned the task of repairing the city would be huge.
Residents whose houses have been hit are eligible for up to 5,000 euros in immediate government aid, while restaurant and shop owners can receive up to 20,000 euros and apply for more later.
Tuesday's high waters submerged around 80 percent of the city, officials said.
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