London's first official bathing site on the River Thames was meant to mark a new chapter for open-water swimming in the city. Instead, swimmers are being warned to stay out of the water.
Here's what to know
The English capital's first designated bathing spot on the Thames at the Ham and Kingston site in Kingston was launched in May. By August, the Environment Agency had detected toxic blue-green algae in the water, LBC reported.
Also called cyanobacteria, blue-green algae can release toxins that are dangerous to people and animals. It can irritate skin on contact, and swallowing contaminated water can cause illness. Dogs are particularly at risk because they may drink from the river or lick algae from their fur after swimming.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said, "We have identified blue-green algae on the lower River Thames including the Ham and Kingston designated bathing water. We are working with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, who have put signage in this location to warn people that it is not safe to swim."
The site undergoes regular testing during the summer season, which continues until the end of September.
More background
Officials said blue-green algae grows more readily when temperatures are warm, rainfall is low, and water conditions are calmer.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
The agency said it has linked drought and prolonged dry weather with rising numbers of algal blooms, fish deaths, and worsening water quality.
Because the toxins can kill wild animals, farm animals, and pets, officials are urging dog owners to keep animals away from the affected water.
What's being done?
The Environment Agency said warning signs have already been installed at the site by local authorities. Swimmers can also check the latest safety guidance on the Swiminfo website, where an advice-against-bathing notice is active.
Officials are also collecting water samples along the river to work out how far the bloom extends. The agency said downstream abstractors have been informed, and the UK Health Security Agency has also been notified.
As the spokesperson said, "It is important that members of the public do not enter the Thames along this stretch. It is also vitally important to keep dogs out of the water."
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
