Bathers at the beaches of Forte Novo and Quarteira Nascente in the Loulé council were deprived of a refreshing sea swim due to a discharge of wastewater which contaminated the water last Sunday.
After a strong sewer odour was detected by swimmers at Quarteira Nascente beach, lifeguards were immediately informed and red flags hoisted as a precautionary measure.
According to the maritime authorities, the cause was the breakdown of a pump at a local wastewater treatment station which led to the discharge. Captain Eduardo Malaquias said the problem had been resolved but bathers were still prevented from entering the sea on Monday and Tuesday while further water tests were carried out to safeguard to health of swimmers. The green flag is flying again.
