Muddy Waters in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is also known as the 'Cidade Maravilhosa' for its incredible beaches, mountainous landscape and vibrant culture. Unfortunately the marvelous city also has some drawbacks. We have posted before about the violence that plagues the city. Today there is yet another issue that travelers should be aware of in the weeks leading up to Carnival: contaminated waters.

Lee Weingast, our editor in Brazil, has the following warning:

It's commonly known that it's not a great idea to swim after a day of rain since toxins/pollution are stirred up by the rains. The recent rains in Rio have brought this warning to a new level. Official recommendations made last Thursday by the State Environmental and Engineering Foundation (FEEMA) cautioned that the water at some of Rio's beaches is not fit for swimming. The causes are Microcystis Aerugionosa (an algae) and sewage in the water. Toxins from the algae can cause liver, intestine and skin problems. The warning includes Ipanema, Leblon and Barra da Tijuca. The beaches of Arpoador, Copacabana, Leme, Praia Vermelha, Grumari and Prainha are apparently okay for swimming. 

Lifeguards who have entered the water to try to convince swimmers to get out have experienced stomach pains and skin irritations.

Be aware that when red flags and signs on the beach warn of undertow there is a real risk. I have seen many swimmers--often dubbed "silly foreigners" by the huge crowds of onlookers--rescued by dramatic and galant efforts of skilled lifeguards, often with the use of helicopters. Even the shallow waters can be dangerous.

Oh, and just because you may see other people swimming, that doesn't mean that the water is safe: the newspapers report that, despite the alerts, the beaches were full over this past warm weekend and swimmers refused to heed the warnings. So, to escape the heat without risk of drowning or rash, use the showers on the beach or stop by your hotel's pool (if there is one).

You can also consider some of our activities for a Rainy Day in Rio!

Comments

Was very disappointed to read that this wasn't about the blues singer.