Riga Municipality Urges Residents to Cool Off at Beaches and Fountains
Amid forecasted heatwave, Riga municipality reminds residents of 9 official swimming spots, 20 recreation areas, 14 fountains, and 50 drinking water refill stations. Water quality is monitored regularly, and 16 new refill points are planned.
Riga City Council is encouraging both residents and visitors to seek relief from the heat at designated swimming areas or by fountains. According to the municipality, the capital has nine official swimming spots staffed with lifeguards, as well as 20 active recreation zones near water without lifeguard presence. During the swimming season, microbiological water quality tests are conducted monthly, with the latest results showing good quality at all locations.
The municipality also maintains 14 fountains – ten stationary and four floating – managed by SIA “Rīgas meži”. All are currently operational, with increased monitoring during hot days. Visual inspections are carried out daily, while pollution measurements are taken at least once a week. Fountains in wading pools are cleaned regularly, and staff respond promptly to reports of contamination.
Additionally, there are 50 drinking water refill points across the city, allowing people to drink or fill bottles – even for pets. The municipality plans to install 16 more such taps this year. With temperatures forecast to reach +31°C on Saturday, the advice to stay cool is particularly timely.
