Worst drought in 70 years causes state of emergence in northern Italy

A state of emergency has been declared in parts of Italy amid the country's worst drought in 70 years.

Five regions surrounding the country's largest river will be given 36.5 million euros (£31m) to help them deal with the water shortage, which has threatened a third of Italy's agricultural production.

Emilia-Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Piedmont and Veneto have all been affected by the drought, with parts of the Po River running completely dry as a result.

Farmers have raised concerns about the water flow being so weak that it has caused seawater to seep inland and destroy crops.

The Po River, whose waters help irrigate rice paddies, farm fields, and grazing land for cows, has been recorded at its lowest level in about 70 years.

As a result of the government decree, authorities will be able to take immediate action to impose restrictions, such as water rationing, where they believe it is necessary.

Some cities and towns, including Verona, in Veneto, have already placed limits on residents' water usage.

In a statement, the government said the emergency measures would also cover lands that bordered the Po and the water basins of the eastern Alps.

"The state of emergency is aimed at managing the current situation with extraordinary means and powers, with relief and
assistance to the affected population," it added.

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Water authorities have said the drought is increasingly impacting central Italy, which has been hit by an extremely dry
winter and spring followed by an exceptionally hot early summer.

Italian media have also reported that Prime Minister Mario Draghi is considering appointing a commissioner to coordinate the response.

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