Swimmers warned of toxic algae at newly designated Thames bathing site
Swimmers have been warned to avoid the River Thames at Ham due to the presence of toxic blue-green algae. Experts suggest the bloom is caused by extreme heat and low water flow, raising concerns about Thames Water's plans to discharge treated sewage into the area.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intersection of climate change, public health, and the controversial management of water infrastructure in the UK.
Swimmers enjoying a dip in the Thames at Ham in May. Swimmers enjoying a dip in the Thames at Ham in May. Pollution Swimmers warned of toxic algae at newly designated Thames bathing site People and pets told to keep out of river at Ham amid anger over Thames Water’s plans to pump treated sewage
Prefer the Guardian on Google Swimmers are being warned not to enter the water at the first official bathing site on the River Thames, in south-west London , because of toxic blue-green algae in the water.
The blue-green algal blooms are rare in moving water but are likely to be caused by the extreme heat, low river flow, and nutrient pollution from sewage waste. Thames Water’s Hogsmill sewage treatment plant, in Kingston upon Thames, is situated three miles upstream of the Ham bathing site.
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