São Paulo coast sees 116 beaches unfit for bathing

A significant number of beaches along the São Paulo coast are currently unfit for swimming due to water contamination. According to data from the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (Cetesb), 116 beaches across the state have been classified as improper for bathing.

The Baixada Santista region is the most heavily impacted, with 63 improper locations. The North Coast follows with 50 improper beaches, while the South Coast has only three. The poor water quality is attributed to heavy rainfall in recent days, which increases the risk of sewage contamination.

In Baixada Santista, only nine beaches remain suitable for bathing (green flag status). These include locations in Bertioga, Guarujá, Peruíbe, and others. Cetesb monitors water quality based on the density of fecal coliforms and enterococci; levels exceeding specific thresholds trigger an improper classification. Authorities warn that contaminated water poses health risks, including gastroenteritis, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.