Authorities ban swimming at Schrems moor bath

Authorities have imposed a swimming ban at the Moorbad in Schrems, a bathing facility in the Gmuend district, because of increased levels of blue-green algae, ORF reported. The ban has been in effect since Monday, after the district authority issued the order.

The town had initially strongly advised people not to swim there. In late July, firefighters tried to limit the algae growth by circulating and oxygenating the water.

A swimming ban also remains in place until further notice at Geissbachteich in Amaliendorf, in the Gmuend district.

At Herrenteich in Litschau, also in the Gmuend district, authorities are awaiting another water test. There is no swimming ban, but children are currently advised not to swim there. Adults are advised to shower after swimming and change their swimwear.

The natural bathing pond in Pyhra, in the St. Poelten district, has reopened. It had been closed because of poor water quality and was cleared for swimming again on Sunday.