Foto: Džbán | Praha 6
Water quality at Prague's official bathing sites varies considerably in the middle of the summer season. While several natural swimming areas are perfectly safe for bathing, a strict swimming ban remains in place at the Džbán natural swimming area.
In the middle of the summer season, Prague's public health authorities continue to monitor water quality regularly at the capital's official bathing sites. The latest measurements present a mixed picture: while several natural swimming areas and biotopes have excellent water quality, a strict swimming ban is currently in force at Džbán Lake.
Bathing is currently considered safe and poses no health risk at Biotop Lhotka, Biotop Radotín, Divoká Šárka Swimming Pool and Jezero Lipence Natural Swimming Area. According to the public health authorities, there is no health risk at these locations.
However, water quality has deteriorated at several other bathing sites. The affected locations are Motol Pond, Braník Beach on the Vltava River and Hostivař Natural Swimming Area. The main reasons are reduced water clarity and a deterioration in the water's sensory quality. Bathing remains possible at these sites, although visitors are advised to shower thoroughly after leaving the water.
An increased occurrence of blue-green algae has been detected at Šeberák Natural Swimming Area. The water quality is considered unsuitable, particularly for sensitive groups, including pregnant women, children, allergy sufferers and people with weakened immune systems.
The Džbán Natural Swimming Area is currently subject to the highest warning level. Due to a severe blue-green algae bloom, the public health authorities have imposed a swimming ban. The water poses an acute health risk and may cause skin irritation, eye infections and gastrointestinal problems if swallowed accidentally.
Prague's Public Health Authority recommends that visitors check the latest water quality information before visiting a bathing site and follow all warning signs displayed on site. After swimming in natural waters, people are also advised to shower with clean drinking water as soon as possible.
