Schwerin (dpa/mv) - The high summer temperatures up to the end of August have led to a massive increase in the cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, in Lake Schwerin. The health department of the state capital therefore issued a warning for the Kalkwerder outdoor pool on the southern shore of the lake on Thursday. So far, the popular lido in the neighboring district of Zippendorf has not been affected. The observation of the areas of the lake used for bathing has been intensified, it said.
In summer, persistently high water temperatures repeatedly lead to so-called algal blooms on the Baltic Sea or on inland waters. Skin contact with blue-green algae can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Children and people with open wounds are particularly at risk. If the water is swallowed, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
In mid-August, Greifswald issued a bathing warning for the Eldena lido because of blue-green algae, but lifted it a few days later. The country's bathing water map for a good 500 bathing areas by the sea and lakes, published and regularly updated by the Ministry of Social Affairs, showed no further warnings of blue-green algae on Thursday.
