Baltic Sea and lakes in MV: Over 90% of the best water quality for bathers!

Baltic Sea and lakes in MV: Over 90% of the best water quality for bathers!

It's a sunny day and the bathing season has begun - the ideal time to take a look at the water quality of German waters. According to a current report by the European Environment Agency, over 90 percent of German water bodies have extremely good bathing water quality. This particularly affects the coastal regions on the Baltic Sea, where swimming is safe on all beaches in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Holidaymakers and locals can rejoice: in Graal-Müritz, Zingst, Sellin and Heringsdorf they can plunge into the cool water without hesitation, as almost all coastal sections received top marks. Only two sections, the Schaabe on Rügen and Groß Schwansee, were classified as “good”, while a few bathing areas were rated “adequate”, such as Wieck am Darß or the Gloewitzer Bucht in Barth. This is reported by ndr.de.

However, the water investigations are not limited to the coastal regions. Numerous lakes as well as lagoons and bays in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania were also awarded top marks as part of this extensive evaluation. The development in Grambin on the Szczecin Lagoon is particularly pleasing: Here the quality improved from “sufficient” to “good”. It is a sign that the efforts to protect water are bearing fruit and that we can prepare for a relaxed swimming season.

Health awareness on the water

But caution is advised: health authorities warn of possible health risks in the waters. These can arise from fecal contamination, such as Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci, as well as mass developments of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). If the values ​​are too high, a follow-up sample is usually taken and a temporary bathing ban may be issued. Contact with visible cyanobacteria deposits should be avoided at all costs, as they can cause health problems, especially in sensitive people. This information comes from a current communication from the state government of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which also explains possible symptoms of bathing dermatitis and advises avoiding bank areas rich in aquatic plants, especially at high water temperatures above 23 °C. Those interested can find details on the [MV government] website (https://www.regierung-mv.de/Landesregierung/sm/gesundheit/Badewasserqualitaet/).

But the good news remains: With over 90 percent of the waters in very good quality, all water-loving citizens can thoroughly enjoy the free bathing spots on the Baltic Sea and in the lakes of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania!

A look into the future

Despite the positive aspects, rising water temperatures and climate change must be kept in mind. These factors could have a long-term negative impact on water quality, particularly through an increase in cyanobacteria that thrive in stagnant or slow-moving water. A current report from the Umweltbundesamt points out that very warm summers in particular can lead to an increase in poorly classified waters, which could thwart the plans of bathing enthusiasts. It is therefore advisable to regularly inform yourself about the current water quality values ​​and possible dangers.

Summer has officially started, and with it comes the anticipation and desire to spend free time by the water. While Greifswald is hosting the 15th MV Day until Sunday and a cup for the best apprentices from the region is coming up, all those who want to relax by the water can also prepare for summer enjoyment - as long as they take the necessary precautionary measures. Pack your swimming trunks – the swimming season in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania can begin!