'An apocalypse happened': Venice counts cost of devastating floods

Businesses and residents say they feel helpless as they brace for next high tides

As tourists posed for selfies at St Mark's Square on Wednesday evening, shop owners mopped the floors of their premises and cleared debris while assessing the cost of the damage caused by record high tides.

"An apocalypse happened," said Antonella Rossi, who owns a handmade jewellery shop under the portico that surrounds the square.