Toxic Algae Blooms Plague New Thames Bathing Site Amid Drought

Swimmers have been warned to avoid the River Thames at Ham, a newly designated official bathing site in south-west London, due to the presence of toxic blue-green algae. The blooms, which are unusual for flowing water, are attributed to a combination of extreme heat, critically low river flow, and nutrient pollution from sewage.

The situation at Ham highlights the compounding environmental pressures on the River Thames, exacerbated by ongoing drought conditions. While the site was recently approved for bathing, the emergence of toxic algae poses a significant public health risk, impacting not only humans but also pets. Authorities are urging caution as the river's ecosystem struggles under the strain of prolonged high temperatures and reduced water levels.