Water contamination reported at several Brazilian beaches

Environmental monitoring agencies in Brazil have reported widespread water contamination affecting several coastal regions. In Bahia, the Institute of Environment and Water Resources (Inema) classified the 1st Beach of Morro de São Paulo as unfit for swimming due to water quality standards not being met.

In the state of São Paulo, all seven monitored points in Santos—including José Menino, Pompeia, Gonzaga, Boqueirão, Embaré, Aparecida, and Ponta da Praia—have been classified as unfit for bathing by the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (Cetesb). Other areas in the Baixada Santista, such as São Vicente, Praia Grande, Guarujá, Mongaguá, Itanhaém, and Peruíbe, also report specific beaches with inadequate conditions.

Authorities recommend that swimmers avoid contact with water in areas marked with red flags or those showing suspicious discoloration. Inema specifically advises caution during rainy periods due to the risk of debris and contaminants being washed into the sea via storm drains.