BATE WARLING for Berlin waters: algae flowers and risk of bacteria

Hohe Bakterienwerte und Algenblüten in Berlin: Das Lageso warnt vor dem Baden im Teufelssee, Unterhavel und Dahme. Sicherheit geht vor!
High bacterial values ​​and algae flowers in Berlin: The LAGESO warns of bathing in the Teufelssee, Unterhavel and Dahme. Security is going on! (Symbolbild/MB)

BATE WARLING for Berlin waters: algae flowers and risk of bacteria

In late summer, several lakes and bathing areas have become a health risk for bathers due to high values ​​from E.Coli bacteria and excessive algae blossom due to high values ​​of E.Coli bacteria. The State Office for Health and Social Affairs (LAGESO) has therefore pronounced an urgent bathing warning for the Teufelssee as well as parts of the Unterhavel and the Dahme.

The Teufelssee, a popular bathing opportunity in the Grunewald, is affected by significant contamination. The presence of E.Coli bacteria is alarming because it indicates a possibly fece stress on the water. This can be caused by various sources, including waste water, rainwater overflows and agricultural entries, but also by contacting bathers or birds with the water.

bathing in the Dahme and Unterhavel also risky

The Unterhavel is not only dangerous by increased e.Coli values, but above all through unhealthy growth of algae. In the areas such as Grunewaldurm, small bathing meadow, Breithorn, Lieper Bay and others, there are clear algae accumulations that stand out by unsightly streaks and carpet formation. The LAGESO recommends avoiding these areas. Places where many bathers come together are particularly affected, which increases the risk of health problems.

in the Dahme, especially in the areas of Schmöckwitz, large cramp and bumper corner, the water has colored through the algae blossom dark and cloudy. This contamination can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive people. Therefore, children and sensitive people should stay away from these waters.

The situation is important for the Berlin population for the Berlin population because bathing water controls indicate possible health risks. The LAGESO has found high values ​​for faecal bacteria and the appearance of blue algae at a total of twelve bathing areas, which puts bathing pleasure and relaxation in nature. Only a bathing area is affected by these health risks in the entire state of Brandenburg.

These circumstances show how much the water quality suffers from various influences. Walls from dense urban infrastructures and agricultural practices can increasingly affect natural water quality. The algae blossom arises from over -fertilization, be it through agriculture, waste water or other sources that lead nutrients into the water and promote the growth of algae.

protective measures are required

In order to counter these developments, preventive measures are important. Enlightenment about the responsible handling of water resources and the reduction of waste in waters could help improve water quality. In Berlin, the possible health hazard blinds the rich cultural and landscape beauty of the waters. The users of these bathing areas are called up to be careful and informed in order to be able to enjoy swimming in Berlin's surrounding area in the future.

The LAGESO has emphasized that only a thorough analysis and improvement of the hygiene and water quality standards can secure bathing water in Berlin for the public. Therefore, it remains to be seen how the authorities will react to the current situation in order to free the waters from harmful substances and to make bathing in Berlin secure again.

The problem of water pollution through high concentrations of E.Coli bacteria and algae flowers is not new and affects many waters not only in Berlin, but worldwide. In recent years, the frequency of bathroom warnings has increased due to health risks for swimmers. The causes are diverse: climate change, urban expansion and agricultural practices significantly influence the water quality.

causes of the contamination of water

One of the main causes for the increased E.Coli values ​​and algae growth is the faecal contamination. This can be caused by various sources, including waste water, which is from sewage treatment plants into water, as well as surface outflows that occur after heavy rains. In addition, agricultural practices also help to get fertilizers and pesticides into the waters. According to the Federal Environment Agency , agricultural entries play a major role in nutrient pollution, which promotes algae growth and leads to a deterioration in water quality.

effects on health

The health effects of Baden in contaminated waters can be serious. E.Coli bacteria are indicators of fecal contamination and can transmit pathogens that cause diarrhea and other serious health problems. People swimming in contaminated water risk that pathogens get into the body via mucous membranes or damaged skin. Children and the elderly in particular are more susceptible to these risks.

In addition, blue algae, which often bloom at higher temperatures and nutrient loads, can also be health risks. These algae produce toxins that can cause skin irritation, breathing difficulties and even serious poisoning. It is important to exercise special caution in affected areas and to take warnings from the health authorities seriously.

measures to improve water quality

Various measures are required to improve water quality in Berlin and elsewhere. This includes improving wastewater treatment, reducing nutrient entries from agriculture and creating buffer zones in waters. The public authorities are required to introduce efficient monitoring systems in order to regularly check the water quality and react promptly to changes. In addition, citizens can also contribute through responsible behavior and avoiding waste in the bank area.

public reactions and awareness

The current bathing warnings have triggered concern in the Berlin population. Many people are not aware of the health risks or do not take the warnings seriously enough. On social media and local news, there are increasing discussions about the need to better find out about the quality of the waters. The sensitization of the public is crucial so that swimmers can know the risks and make safe decisions.

- Nag