The authorities have today prohibited swimming at Praia da Alagoa – Altura and Praia Verde in the municipality of Castro Marim, Algarve, due to microbiological contamination, the municipality reported.
In a statement, the Faro district municipality revealed that the results of the water quality analysis collected on Monday showed microbiological contamination levels exceeding the reference limit.
Following the information transmitted by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) to the municipality at 12:00, a ban was declared, with a red flag raised on these beaches. The source of the contamination remains unknown.
“The information was officially communicated to the Municipal Council at noon, which has since been collaborating with official entities to investigate possible sources, though no evidence has been found within its jurisdiction,” the statement reads.
The municipality noted that as the source of the potential contamination is still under investigation, the Directorate-General of Health determined the swimming ban as a preventative measure until new results become available.
“Even though no effects have been detected, the described situation could potentially pose a health risk to bathers,” it stated.
A new analysis has already been conducted, which could result in lifting the restriction if parameter changes are observed, the Algarve municipality indicated.
“Hoping to restore the safety and quality of the water, we regret the inconvenience this situation may have caused,” it emphasized.
