Beach closures in Andalusia and Galicia due to contamination

Authorities in Andalusia, Spain, have implemented several beach closures due to water contamination. In the Costa del Sol region, specifically in Málaga and Benalmádena, swimming was prohibited at multiple locations after water analysis detected Escherichia coli (E. coli) levels exceeding regulated standards. These contamination levels were linked to storm-related sewage discharges, while reports of skin reactions among swimmers in Benalmádena prompted precautionary closures.

Following these incidents, the Regional Delegation of Health and Consumption of the Junta de Andalucía banned swimming at five beaches in the province of Cádiz. Routine microbiological monitoring identified high concentrations of both E. coli and intestinal enterococci at several sites, including Aculadero-Puerto Sherry and Fuentebravía in El Puerto de Santa María, Micaela in Chipiona, La Cachucha in Puerto Real, and Punta Candor in Rota. Local municipalities have been instructed to post warning signage to inform the public of potential risks, such as gastroenteritis.

Recent reports indicate that the contamination issue has extended to Galicia. The Sergas has advised against bathing at O Portiño beach in Saians, Vigo, following similar detections of E. coli and enterococci. While water quality at Portocelo beach in Marín has since returned to excellent levels following heavy rainfall, authorities continue to process new water samples in Cádiz to determine when the existing restrictions can be lifted.