Swimming ban lifted on 22 Adriatic beaches

Swimming ban lifted on 22 Adriatic beaches

Tourists are in for an unpleasant surprise in the popular Adriatic seaside resort of Rimini. On Tuesday, there was a temporary ban on swimming in about 30 sections of the coast in Rimini, Riccione and Cattolica, as reported by the Italian newspaper “La Repubblica”.

known phenomenon

This was imposed after excessive levels of the bacteria Escherichia coli and the pathogen Enterococcus were found in the water. This intestinal germ, which is widespread throughout the world, can cause diarrhea and blood poisoning, among other things.

The interdiction due to the danger of deviating values ​​is common in the 24 hours after the rains, since the overflow pipes are opened in the sea; In view of the persistent drought, however, this phenomenon cannot be explained at the moment.

Red and white flags were hoisted to show tourists the affected stretches of beach. The ban was imposed by the regional health authorities after carrying out a survey of sea waters along the coast of Emilia-Romagna.

Last but not least, heat as a trigger

According to a regional environmental agency, extraordinary weather conditions are responsible for the high bacterial count: “Very high water temperatures for many weeks, with values ​​above 30 degrees, persistent lack of ventilation, poor water exchange, prolonged drought” .

Operators of bathing establishments in the three affected municipalities have reacted critically to the ban on bathing, which affects almost half of the coast of Rimini. After the weekend rains, the situation has returned to normal, the sea water is clean and transparent, they said. Operators fear for their business at the height of summer.