Surging cyanobacteria force summer swim bans along the Bay of Lübeck

The increase in cyanobacteria in the Bay of Lübeck area has become a severe problem, particularly in popular tourist spots along the Baltic Sea. Their numbers are currently rising rapidly, posing a significant health threat. Specific measures have been deemed necessary.

In the popular German tourist destination, the Bay of Lübeck, holidaymakers and residents are contending with a sudden surge in the amount of cyanobacteria. According to "Bild", cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms in humans, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and skin irritations.

The temperatures prevailing this summer, combined with intense sunlight, are conducive to the rapid reproduction of cyanobacteria. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in coastal towns such as Travemünde, Timmendorf, Scharbeutz, Grömitz, Dahme, and Großenbrode.

In Großenbrode, the situation became so severe that authorities imposed a temporary swimming ban. Similar restrictions were also introduced in the nearby town of Süssau, where a swimming warning is in place – a measure just one level below a full ban.

People who swim in infected waters despite the warnings should exercise extreme caution. It is important to avoid accidentally swallowing the water, as this can lead to various health issues, from muscle pains to conjunctivitis, and even respiratory problems. Children and animals, particularly dogs, are at risk since they may come into contact with the water.

On Wednesday, the police, recognising the danger, stopped a sailboat sailing from Kühlungsborn to Lübeck to prevent any further human endangerment.

The presence of cyanobacteria in the water is easy to notice – they can be recognised by the characteristic greenish-blue tint of the water and the streaks and clusters resembling algal carpets. There is also a simple visual test: if the water is so murky that you cannot see your feet when standing in it up to your knees, it's better to avoid swimming.

Despite the worrying situation in the Bay of Lübeck, there is also good news. On the island of Fehmarn, Germany's largest island, the water is free from cyanobacteria and rated as excellent. Similarly, the situation looks good in larger lakes in the Ostholstein region, where the water remains clean and safe for swimming.

The current conditions require tourists to be more vigilant and cautious. Before swimming, it is advisable to check the latest warnings and use only safe, verified places to avoid health risks.