The São Paulo coast has reported 27 beaches that are considered unsuitable for bathing as per the most recent weekly update from the Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo (CETESB), released on February 12. This information is crucial for both residents and tourists, especially as the state prepares for the high season of beachgoing. The next report will come out on February 19, following the trend of weekly updates to monitor beach conditions.

Of the 27 beaches marked as unsuitable, six are located in the North Coast while 21 are found in the South Coast of São Paulo. The assessment of beach water quality is primarily driven by the levels of bacteria found in the water, where the presence of over 100 bacterial colonies per 100 milliliters classifies a beach as unsafe for bathing. In such cases, warning signs, commonly known as red flags, are displayed to alert beachgoers of potential health hazards.

The CETESB warns the public against swimming in these affected waters due to the health risks posed by bacterial contamination, which could lead to various illnesses. With summer approaching, local authorities are expected to remain vigilant and ensure that proper precautions are communicated to safeguard public health while enjoying the shoreline. The situation underscores the importance of regular monitoring of beach conditions to maintain safety for all visitors.