Majority of Rīga's swimming locales maintain satisfactory water purity levels.
In the heart of Latvia's capital, Riga, summertime means an influx of locals and visitors to the city's water bodies for a refreshing swim. However, it's essential to be aware of the current conditions and safety measures in place before taking a dip.
The water temperature in the Daugava River near Riga, including the area opposite Latgales Street 320, is generally suitable for swimming, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 18 degrees Celsius. Swimmers can enjoy cool but comfortable waters, particularly around Ķīpsala and Rumbula, where temperatures hover around +18 degrees, and in Lucavsala and Vakarbuļļi, where the temperature is about +17 degrees.
However, it's important to note that some official beaches in Riga have suffered damage from strong winds and large waves earlier in July. This has resulted in the destruction of wooden walkways, changing rooms, and benches, with some areas still flooded or covered in displaced sand. As a result, the Riga City Council has temporarily advised bathers to use other official swimming areas, including swimming spots in the Daugava River and at Bābelītis Lake, while cleanup and restoration are underway and expected to be completed by July 3.
To ensure safety, the city is actively working on restoring beach infrastructure such as access routes and footbridges, ensuring proper facilities for bathers once repairs are complete. The official swimming areas are monitored by the local government to maintain safety standards, and public notifications advise swimmers about current conditions and alternative locations in case of disruptions.
While the water quality in the Daugava River near Riga is generally suitable for swimming, it's worth mentioning that an increase in Escherichia coli (E.coli) levels has been detected in the water opposite Latgales Street 320. As a precaution, swimming is not recommended in this specific area.
It's also important to remember that the Housing and Environment Department does not provide specific information about the safety of wild swimming areas. Swimmers are urged to be careful and responsible on, in, and near the water, regardless of whether they choose an official or wild swimming spot.
Wild swimming is popular in Latvia, but it's crucial to be aware that drowning statistics in the country are high. To stay informed about Riga's official swimming areas, visit the provided information. The Housing and Environment Department continues the practice of previous years this year, monitoring the quality of swimming water in 20 popular recreation areas near water bodies.
In summary, while the water quality in Riga's popular swimming areas, including the Daugava River near Latgales Street 320, is generally suitable for swimming, bathers should be aware that some beach facilities have been damaged and consult local updates for safety advice before swimming. Swimming is not recommended in the Daugava River opposite Latgales Street 320 due to increased E.coli levels, regardless of it being an official or wild swimming area.
- The LSM (Latvian State Media) reported a increase in E.coli levels in the water near Latgale street 320, making it advisable not to swim in that specific area.
- In addition to the official swimming areas that are monitored by the local government, fitness and exercise enthusiasts in Latvia's Latgale region can also opt for wild swimming, but it's crucial to be careful and aware of drowning statistics in the country.
- Meanwhile, in Riga, the society has been encouraged to check the Riga City Council's updates on the condition of the official swimming areas in the water bodies, including the Daugava River, for health and wellness reasons, as some facilities have been damaged and restoration work is ongoing.
