The microbiological quality of water samples taken during week 25 was good at all public beaches in Kouvola. At the time of sampling, a small amount of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) was observed at Käyrälampi beach. However, no algae were detected at the beach in the following days. Since algae conditions can change rapidly, it is always advisable to visually inspect the water before swimming.
The microbiological quality of water samples taken during week 25 was good at all public beaches in Kouvola. At the time of sampling, a small amount of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) was observed at Käyrälampi beach. However, no algae were detected at the beach in the following days. Since algae conditions can change rapidly, it is always advisable to visually inspect the water before swimming.
During week 25, the average water temperature at the beaches was 20.2°C, ranging from 18.4°C to 21.8°C.
The City of Kouvola maintains 11 public beaches. In addition, there are three beaches maintained by private entities. Beaches are classified according to regulations set by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health into general public beaches and small public beaches. The classification is based on the number of visitors.
A general (or large) beach—also known as an EU beach—is one that is expected to have a significant number of swimmers during the bathing season. In the Kouvola region, there are four EU beaches: Käyrälampi, Särkät, Venna, and Koivusaari.
The regulations also define the water quality requirements, which are based on the Health Protection Act and aim to safeguard the health of swimmers. The City of Kouvola’s Environmental Services monitors the condition and water quality of the beaches.
The swimming season runs from June 15 to August 31. Water samples are taken from EU beaches five times during the summer and from small beaches three times during the season, according to a monitoring calendar. The next round of sampling will take place in week 28.
Information about water quality and related announcements can be found on notice boards at the beaches and on the City of Kouvola’s website.
This article is a translation from the original Finnish version, assisted by AI.