Health authorities in the Czech Republic have imposed bathing bans at numerous locations due to a proliferation of cyanobacteria. These bacteria can cause allergic reactions and have significantly degraded water quality in several regions. Affected swimmers have reported symptoms including skin rashes, red eyes, runny noses, gastrointestinal issues, and headaches.
The Vysočina region is particularly impacted, with bans in place at the Trnávka and Sedlice reservoirs, as well as the Kachlička and Ředkovec ponds. The Domanín pond in the Žďár region is also deemed unsuitable for swimming due to cyanobacteria.
In total, the bathing ban affects at least ten locations. New additions to the list include the Orlík reservoir in Písek, the Skalka reservoir in Cheb, and the Sedlice reservoir in the Pelhřimov region. The Olešná reservoir in the Frýdek-Místek region and the Dlouhý pond in Orlickoústecko are also closed to bathers.
In the Ústí nad Labem region, a ban is anticipated for the village of Varvazov. A ban has already been in effect since July 25 for the Plumlov dam near Prostějov and in the Pahrbek river arm in the Zlín region.
However, some regions have seen a slight improvement in water quality. The cyanobacteria levels in the Žermanice reservoir have decreased, leading to the lifting of the bathing ban, although water quality remains impaired. The water quality in the Jesenice reservoir near Cheb has also improved. The ban on the Šeberák pond in Prague’s Kunratice district has been lifted, but the water is still not suitable for swimming.
Authorities advise citizens to check the latest water quality reports before swimming in affected waters.
For an overview of water quality and information on closures, visit: Koupací vody.
