- Blue algae are a nuisance in some lakes
Blue-green algae are causing issues in Bavarian bathing waters again in 2024, particularly at locations that have been affected by mass blooms in previous years. As of now, most of these spots have warnings or bans in place, according to data from the responsible district offices or municipalities.
The Bavarian Ministry of Health named 13 lakes or ponds with a total of 17 EU-listed bathing spots that have experienced at least two mass blooms of blue-green algae since 2022. Currently, 12 of these 17 spots have bathing warnings or bans in place. For instance, all three EU-listed bathing spots at the Altmühlsee and Kleine Brombachsee are affected.
There are also additional warnings. The district office of Unterallgäu, for example, lists five more water bodies with blue-green algae problems, apart from the Rothdachweiher mentioned above, where bathing is not recommended at the moment. Other EU-listed bathing waters that have been affected multiple times in the past and currently have warnings or bans include the Ebenhausener Weiher in Upper Bavaria, the Baggersee Riedlingen in Swabia, and the Weißenstädter See and Baggersee Ebing in Upper Franconia. This list is likely not exhaustive, as there is no complete overview for Bavaria.
However, there are also positive developments. At five of the 13 lakes or ponds that have suffered from blue-green algae multiple times in the past, there are no problematic values reported at present.
- To ensure public safety, the relevant authorities have issued warnings or bans at several EU-listed bathing spots in Bavaria due to the recurring issue of blue-green algae and associated health risks.
- To prioritize health and safety, officials recommend avoiding bathing in certain water bodies, such as the Rothdachweiher and three spots at the Altmühlsee and Kleine Brombachsee, which have been affected by multiple blue-green algae blooms.
