Blue-green algae limits possibilities for open-air swimming

Swimming ponds and lakes in Flanders are increasingly having to be closed to swimmers because of the presence of blue-green algae in the water. There have been 23 prohibitions already this year, compared to 10 at the same point in previous years.

Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria form a layer on the water surface. If people touch it, it can have several effects on human health, including irritation, diarrhoea and headache, so the waters are closed to swimmers.

Blue-green algae benefit from the hotter temperatures and appear as soon as the water reaches 20 degrees. The abundant rain in the first half of the year in Flanders also plays a role, as more fertilizers enter the water from agricultural land. Once a lake or pond is affected, getting rid of the blue-green algae is very difficult.

Authorities in Flanders prohibit all activities in the affected waters and discourage activities around it, such as fishing or rowing.

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