French coastal towns implement water restrictions and swimming bans

Several French coastal municipalities are implementing restrictions on water use and activities due to environmental concerns. In Ghyvelde, the 2026 Ghyvelde-Plage summer event has been modified to exclude aquatic games due to drought-related water restrictions. While the event continues with inflatable structures, the water-based activities were canceled following a prefectural decree.

In the Calvados region north of Caen, municipalities including Bernières-sur-Mer and Courseulles-sur-Mer have issued preventive bans on swimming, fishing, and nautical activities. These measures follow concerns regarding potential water contamination caused by rainfall runoff and sewage system indicators. Local authorities stated these bans remain in place until bacteriological analyses can guarantee safety for the public.