Swimming is now banned on 13 beaches in Badalona, Montgat and Sant Adrià. Authorities raised red flags after Thursday’s rain compromised water quality. The restriction could last up to 24 hours.
Authorities have ordered an immediate ban on swimming at all beaches in Badalona, Montgat and Sant Adrià de Besòs after Thursday’s rainfall led to a sharp decline in water quality. Red flags were raised early Friday across these popular Barcelona-area beaches, following a night of moderate storms that swept through the region. The decision, announced by Protección Civil de la Generalitat and the Badalona City Council, aims to protect public health as officials cannot guarantee safe microbiological conditions in the sea.
Out of 230 monitored beaches along the Costa Brava, Maresme, Barcelonès, Garraf and Costa Daurada, a total of 13 now display the red flag: nine in Badalona, two in Montgat and two in Sant Adrià. The majority of closures are concentrated in Badalona, where local authorities have stated that the impact of the rain makes it impossible to ensure the water meets safety standards. The ban is expected to remain in place for at least 24 hours, pending further assessments of water quality.
The move comes as a precaution after recent storms, which can cause runoff and contamination, especially in urban coastal areas. Local councils have used social media to inform residents and visitors about the restrictions, urging the public to respect the red flags and avoid entering the water until further notice. This type of temporary closure is not uncommon in Spain during periods of heavy rainfall, as authorities prioritize health and safety over beach access.
Similar weather-related disruptions have affected other parts of Spain in recent years. For example, several Madrid municipalities recently cancelled public events due to wildfire risks, as reported in a related incident involving solar eclipse gatherings. Such measures highlight the growing need for rapid response to environmental hazards in both coastal and inland regions.
Spain’s coastal monitoring system is among the most extensive in Europe, with regular checks on water quality, flag status and beach safety. The red flag is the highest warning level, indicating that swimming is strictly prohibited due to health or safety risks. While most closures are lifted within a day once conditions improve, authorities stress that compliance is essential to prevent illness or accidents. Tourists and locals are advised to check official updates before heading to the beach, especially during or after adverse weather events.
