A well-liked tourist destination in Tenerife has shut down due to elevated levels of harmful bacteria. The renowned beach in the Canary Islands was cordoned off to the public following an official declaration of it being unfit for swimming due to the presence of harmful bacteria in the water, as indicated by water samples. Adeje Town Hall has erected barriers along the waterfront while awaiting the results of the water sample analysis. Regular monitoring has detected increased levels of harmful enterococci bacteria in the water.
Although enterococci bacteria are naturally found in human and animal intestines, they can lead to unpleasant illnesses if ingested. La Pinta beach has been off-limits since May 14 to prevent individuals from swimming in contaminated water, which can result in stomach ailments, skin irritations, eye infections, and respiratory issues. The beach is currently marked with red warning flags, barricades, and caution tape to dissuade vacationers from entering the water.
Apart from its picturesque setting, the beach is known for its popular inflatable assault course, especially during the summer season. The closure will persist until the water sample tests confirm the absence of harmful bacteria.
The closure has sparked dissatisfaction among visitors, with some expressing disappointment and concern over the situation. This development follows a warning from the Government of the Canary Islands about an impending heatwave across the archipelago. The forecast predicts exceptionally high temperatures, with a pre-alert issued for the current heatwave.
The heatwave is expected to bring scorching temperatures, potentially exceeding 37°C in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, particularly in inland areas in the southern part of the islands. Authorities advise the public to seek shade and avoid consuming alcohol in extreme heat conditions. The official alert for maximum temperatures, issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies, is scheduled to take effect at 11 am.
In Gran Canaria, temperatures could surpass 34°C in inland regions and on the southern slopes, particularly those facing south and west, as cautioned by the government. Meanwhile, Tenerife and La Gomera may experience temperatures exceeding 32°C in the midlands and on the peaks, especially on south-facing slopes.
