Three beaches in the Castro Marim area of the Algarve are closed for swimming on Tuesday, the National Maritime Authority confirmed to Notícias ao Minuto.
A red flag is raised at Altura/Alagoa Beach, Praia Verdelago, and Praia Verde.
In a statement, the municipality in the Faro district clarified that water quality tests conducted on Monday showed “microbiological contamination exceeding the reference limit.”
After the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) informed the municipality at 12:00, the ban was imposed, and red flags were displayed at these beaches.
“The information was made official to the Municipal Council at noon, which, together with the official entities, has been involved in exploring potential sources, still without any indication, within its jurisdiction,” the statement reads.
According to the municipality, as the source of potential contamination is still under investigation, the Directorate-General of Health ordered the swimming ban as a preventive measure until new results are available, it adds.
“Even though no effects have been detected, the described situation could pose a risk to the health of bathers,” it states.
A new analysis has already been conducted, which could lift the restriction if a change in parameters is observed, the Algarve municipality further indicates.
“Hoping to restore safety and water quality, we regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused,” they emphasize.
