The latest report released by the State Secretariat for the Environment and Natural Resources (Sema) indicates that 17 spots in the Greater São Luís area are deemed unsuitable for bathing. This report is part of an ongoing monitoring effort covering the period from January 20 to February 18, 2026, focused on assessing the water quality at local beaches on Maranhão Island. During this period, water samples were collected and analyzed from 22 points along the beaches in São Luís, São José de Ribamar, Paço do Lumiar, and Raposa.

São Luís is particularly affected, with 14 of the reported unsuitable spots located in this area. Only one location in Paço do Lumiar, which is the Olho de Porco Beach, was found to be inappropriate for swimming. In São José de Ribamar, the report identified issues at two locations: one segment of Araçagi Beach and another section of Meio Beach, both failing to meet bathing standards. In contrast, some favorable findings were reported in Raposa, where both analyzed segments were suitable for bathing.

This assessment underscores the importance of regular monitoring of coastal water quality, essential for public health and the environmental sustainability of beach areas. Local authorities and environmental agencies can use this data to address contamination concerns and implement necessary actions to remediate affected locations, thereby ensuring safer recreational spaces for residents and visitors to the region.