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Switzerland Today

Swiss news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Zurich Lake's Tropical Heatwave

Published: 2024-08-15

The Zurich Lake is experiencing unusually high water temperatures, reaching up to 28.4 degrees Celsius, comparable to Mediterranean waters.

This heatwave is affecting not only Zurich Lake but also other smaller bodies of water in the region, such as the Greifensee and Lützelsee, which are nearing 29 degrees.

Despite these high temperatures, local authorities assure that the aquatic ecosystem remains stable, as fish can retreat to cooler, deeper waters.

However, there is concern about the long-term warming trend, which could disrupt the natural mixing of lake waters, essential for oxygen distribution and nutrient balance.

While the current heatwave is not causing significant issues, experts warn that continued warming could lead to problems like algal blooms and reduced water quality.

For now, the Zurich Lake remains safe for swimming, but bathers are advised to be cautious of potential algae presence.