The Seine River in Paris opened for swimming on Saturday for the first time in 100 years. But just one day later, heavy rain forced the city to close three swimming areas. Red flags were put up to warn people not to swim because the water quality was not safe.
Swimming in the Seine was banned in 1923 because the water was too dirty. After many years of cleaning efforts, the river finally reopened for swimming. People of all ages were excited to swim in the historic river. However, when it rains, the old sewage system in Paris often overflows, sending dirty water into the Seine.
City officials check the water every day for harmful bacteria. If it rains, the swimming areas will likely close the next day. Another swimming spot in the Canal St-Martin was also closed on Sunday because of the rain.
The reopening of the Seine for swimming is part of the legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympics. During the Olympics, athletes swam in the river after it was specially cleaned. The city spent a lot of money to improve the water quality. But heavy rain during the Olympics caused some events to be canceled.
The plan to allow swimming in the Seine again started in 1988. The mayor of Paris at the time, Jacques Chirac, wanted to lift the ban. Now, after many years, people can finally swim in the Seine, but only when the water is safe.