River beaches in Portugal closed due to water contamination

Several river beaches in Portugal have been declared unsafe for swimming due to microbiological contamination and the risk of wastewater discharge.

In the Braga municipality, the Adaúfe, Cavadinho, Ponte do Bico, and Merelim São Paio river beaches are advised against bathing. According to the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), water samples analyzed in late August revealed the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and intestinal enterococci, rendering the water improper for swimming.

In Póvoa de Lanhoso, the Verim river beach is also prohibited for bathing. The APA has issued this restriction as a precaution due to the potential occurrence of wastewater discharges.

Additionally, the Sorraia river beach in Coruche has been temporarily closed to swimmers. The Regional Health Delegate for Lisbon and Vale do Tejo ordered the closure following monitoring results that showed high levels of E. coli and intestinal enterococci.