Venice flooded as heavy rain hits

Venice's water levels have raised five feet more than usual after heavy winds and rains hit the historic city this week, it has emerged.

The Italian city's historic buildings have been swamped by the worst floods in 30 years, leaving citizens and holidaymakers alike stranded in buildings.

City mayor Massimo Cacciari told tourists on their way to the area to "think again".

During times of high tides, Venice's waters can reach around 40 inches above their usual depth, but anything over 50 inches poses risks.

More frequent cases of flooding have been blamed on global warming and greater silt deposits adding height to the water bed.

There is currently a barrier system being installed in the city, expected to be completed within four years and designed to control the flow of water from the Adriatic Sea.

Another water-related emergency occurred in South Africa last week when it was announced that there has been an outbreak of cholera in Zimbabwe, killing at least 300 people.