Netherlands water boards warn of rising blue‑algae amid heat wave

Several Dutch water authorities are issuing warnings as prolonged heat and drought increase the risk of blue‑algae blooms in canals, ponds and lakes. The Waterschap Drents‑Overijsselse Delta, Waterschap Limburg, and the Hoogheemraadschap van Schieland en de Krimperewaard advise residents to avoid contact with water that may contain the bacteria, to keep dogs away, and to check the official swimming‑site app or website (www.zwemwater.nl) before entering. Specific locations in Limburg such as Natuurbad De Zeekoelen (Brunssum), De Maasplassen (Maastricht), Fun Valley (Eijsden‑Margraten) and several campsites currently carry blue‑algae alerts.

In addition to blue‑algae, botulism has been detected in dead birds in parts of the Krimperewaard and Wormerland, prompting authorities to ask the public to report dead wildlife and to avoid swimming or playing near affected waters. Precautionary measures, including keeping children and pets away from dead animals and using official reporting channels, remain in force.

The overall advice is to use only designated swimming areas, monitor water‑quality updates, and refrain from contact with water showing green‑blue discoloration, foul odor, or visible algae layers.