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Blue-green algae blooms reported in Baltic Sea and northern German lakes
Authorities in northern Germany and parts of Austria are warning of widespread blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in the Baltic Sea and various inland lakes. Satellite imagery from the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency shows large algae mats stretching from Rostock to Hiddensee and extending toward the Danish coast.
In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Schleswig-Holstein, officials advise swimmers to avoid areas with visible discoloration, streaks, or surface mats. While there are no general bans on the Baltic Sea, specific lakes in Schleswig-Holstein, such as Bordesholmer See and Brahmsee, have implemented swimming bans. In other regions like Bavaria and Hesse, warnings and bans have also been issued for various rivers and lakes.
Contact with these bacteria can cause skin or eye irritation, nausea, vomiting, fever, and respiratory issues. The blooms are highly dependent on wind and weather conditions and can change rapidly.
Entities
ADAC · Baden-Württemberg · Baltic Sea · Bavarian Police · Berq · Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie · Bundesnetzagentur · DB InfraGO · Denmark · Deutsche Bahn · Drone Competence and Defense Center · Erding