Elevated E. coli levels in Saldus Lake prompt swimming advisory
Latvia's Health Inspectorate has found elevated E. coli levels in Saldus Lake and advises against swimming there. In Riga, swimming is also discouraged in Buļļupe and a section of the Daugava near Latgales Street 324D, while another section near Latgales Street 320 is banned.
The Health Inspectorate has issued a statement about water quality at several bathing sites in Latvia. One of the most significant warnings concerns Saldus Lake, where water samples have shown an increased level of microbiological pollution. Specifically, the concentration of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria is higher than recommended. Because of this, the authority is urging people to refrain from swimming in the lake.
Additional checks were carried out in Riga. There, an advisory against swimming applies to Buļļupe and the section of the Daugava opposite Latgales Street 324D. However, in the Daugava section opposite Latgales Street 320, a stricter measure is in force — swimming is prohibited. This means that swimming is not allowed in that location, while in the other mentioned sites swimming is not formally banned but is not recommended for health reasons.
The Inspectorate points out that the presence of E. coli in water can pose a health risk, so these recommendations should be taken seriously. People planning to visit any of these swimming spots should consider the situation and choose water bodies where the water meets the required standards. It is also advisable to follow further announcements, as water quality can change over time.
