The crisis, driven by bad weather, has prompted the government to release 20 million euros in funds to tackle the devastation.

Much of Venice was left under water this week after the highest tide in 50 years ripped through the historic Italian city (AFP Photo).

VENICE, Italy (AFP) — Flood-hit Venice was bracing for another exceptional high tide Friday, as Italy declared a state of emergency for the UNESCO city where perilous deluges have caused millions of euros worth of damage.

Churches, shops and homes in the city of canals have been inundated by unusually intense “acqua alta,” or high waters, which on Tuesday hit their highest level in half a century.

The crisis, driven by bad weather, has prompted the government to release 20 million euros ($22 million) in funds to tackle the devastation.

The water was expected to reach 1.5 meters (5 feet) mid-morning on Friday as strong storms and winds batter the region — lower than Tuesday’s peak but still dangerous, local officials said.

Undeterred, tourists have been larking around in the flooded St Mark’s Square in the sunshine during breaks from the rain, snapping selfies in neon plastic boots.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who has called the flooding “a blow to the heart of our country,” said late Thursday that a state of emergency had been approved.

Earlier that day he met Venice’s mayor and emergency services before jumping in a speed boat to visit businesses and locals affected by the tide.