Proliferation of plant pests Event icon
Event title

Germany - Toxic algae blooms spread in Baltic Sea due to abnormal heatwave

Event category

Ecological disaster - Proliferation of plant pests

Severity

Mid

Event date (UTC)

2026-08-17 21:40:22

Last update (UTC)

2026-08-17 21:40:25

Latitude

54.528091

Longitude

12.937337

Area range

Multiple states / regions wide event

Address/Affected area(s)

Baltic Sea, along the coastal zones of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Schleswig-Holstein states

Satellite images from Germany's Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency show how huge accumulations of bacteria are moving along the coastal zones of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Schleswig-Holstein states, already partially covering the Baltic Sea, Bild reports.
Pollution has also been recorded in numerous lakes in northern Germany. Swimming bans are already in place in some lakes in Schleswig-Holstein, as well as in certain parts of the Baltic Sea.
As per experts, the current heatwave in the area creates perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply. The abundant sunlight, high water temperatures, and weak water circulation enable microorganisms to multiply rapidly.
According to authorities, accidental ingestion of polluted water can cause skin and mucous membrane irritation, allergic reactions, nausea, and vomiting. Children, dogs, and people with sensitive health conditions should exercise particular caution.

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Location