An unusual downpour of rain in Armação de Pêra on August 29 led local authorities to drain the Alcantarilha stream into the ocean, in order to avoid further inundations which occurred in commercial establishments in the lower areas of the town.
Although the authorities had refused to drain the stream when the mosquito plague was active, this time it was seen as inevitable as the overflowing watercourse was threatening to flood the whole lower district of Armação de Pêra. This decision, however, led to the contamination of bathing waters between Silves and Albufeira. The beaches of Salgados, Galé Poente, Vale do Olival, Armação de Pêra and Praia Grande were subject to a bathing ban, which was later lifted when the quality was considered to be satisfying.
The connecting point between the stream and the sea was once again closed following the authorities’ confirmation that the danger of floods had passed.
