Jammerbugt Municipality( Jammerbugt Kommune) has recently implemented a bathing ban in Blokhus Bæk, after the discovery of E. coli bacteria in the water. This has led to the installation of signs along the stream leading to Blokhus Beach, informing visitors about the ban and the municipality’s efforts to address the issue. According to TV2 Nord, the issues stem from a misconnection between sewer and rainwater pipes at Jammerbugt Forsyning, resulting in the discharge of sewage water into the stream.
The presence of E. coli bacteria in bathing water is a recurring issue in several Danish municipalities during the summer. Recently, both Svendborg and Gribskov Kommuner(Communes) have also experienced similar problems. In Svendborg, all bathing at Lundeborg Beach was advised against due to a high content of enterococci, a type of intestinal bacterium, and the municipality is now conducting new tests to ensure water quality. Gribskov Municipality advised against bathing at Rågeleje Beach earlier in June, but new samples quickly showed that the water was safe to swim in again. However, the municipality could not identify the cause of the bacterial contamination.
Danish authorities closely monitor the quality of bathing water throughout the bathing season to protect swimmers from contaminated water. The Danish Environmental Protection Agency informs that pollution is often due to sewage overflows after heavy rain showers. Municipalities are required to inform citizens if such problems arise to ensure public health.