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Venice: Fish Flood Streets as 'Acqua Alta' Phenomenon Strikes

Published February 19, 2026, 14:14
Venice: Fish Flood Streets as 'Acqua Alta' Phenomenon Strikes

A rare phenomenon occurred in Venice, as the city's streets flooded with fish due to the high tide and the 'acqua alta' phenomenon. Videos circulating on social media show hundreds of fish struggling to survive in shallow waters on the city's roads. The 'acqua alta' phenomenon, which occurs between October and January, is caused by the rise in water level due to astronomical tides, a southeastern wind ('scirocco'), and low atmospheric pressure. 'Acqua alta' is a natural phenomenon and should not be confused with a real flood, as the water level rises gradually and lasts for a few hours before receding. St. Mark's Square, the lowest point in the city, is particularly vulnerable to the phenomenon, as it floods and merges with the lagoon. The astronomical tide, caused by the gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun in combination with the Earth's rotation, is the main factor contributing to the phenomenon. The simultaneous occurrence of these factors leads to the rise in water level and the flooding of the lower areas of Venice. This phenomenon, although rare, is expected during the winter months and is part of the natural functioning of Venice's aquatic ecosystem. However, the appearance of fish on the city's streets is an unusual sight that surprised residents and tourists.

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