Italy has declared a state of emergency in five northern regions around the Po river amid its worst drought in 70 years. Emilia-Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Piedmont and Veneto will be given €36.5m (£31m; $38m) in emergency funds to deal with water shortages.
According to the agricultural association Coldiretti, more than 30% of Italy’s agricultural produce is threatened by drought. Many municipalities have already announced water rations.
Abnormally warm weather and low rainfall in winter and spring have exacerbated the water shortage in northern Italy.
“The state of emergency is aimed at managing the current situation with extraordinary means and powers,” the Italian government said.
The Po is the longest river in Italy, flowing east for over 650 km (404 mi). Farmers in the Po Valley say that salty sea water is now seeping into the river, destroying crops.
Over the weekend, at least seven people died after an avalanche hit a glacier in the northern Italian Alps. Prime Minister Mario Draghi said it was “without a doubt” linked to global warming.