VIDEO: Torrential Rainfall Floods Venice

More than 80 percent of the Venice area is submerged, with water levels reaching 187 cm. Authorities are preparing to declare a state of emergency, according to ANSA.

St. Mark's Square has been completely flooded, with water levels exceeding 1 meter. The iconic basilica has also been inundated.

The highest recorded water level (190 cm) was in 1966, when floodwaters affected not only Venice but other Italian cities, including Florence. A level of 130 cm is already considered critical.

Venice's Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has stated that the city is experiencing a real disaster. Residents have been advised to stay off the streets.