July and August can be extremely hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms. January and February can be freezing – though Venice in a snowstorm is impossibly romantic. In autumn, mists rise from the lagoon to make picture-postcard scenery. Summer temperatures range between 30ºC and 33ºC (86ºF-91ºF); in winter that drops to 0ºC to 3ºC (32ºF-37ºF). Rain occurs at all times of year, with spring and autumn peaks – and during those summer storms. In certain tide and storm conditions, possible at any time of year but more common in winter, Venice can experience acqua alta – ‘high water’ or sudden flooding. Warning sirens sound, and some streets are laid out with raised platforms to help people gate about. Platforms get very crowded, and bottlenecks tend to form, so unless you’ve packed rubber boots or waterproof shoes, you’re likely to get wet feet.
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