*Lahinch Beach. Photograph: Sue Pollard
Elevated levels of bacteria in the water have led to the introduction of a do not swim warning in Lahinch.
On the advice of the HSE, Clare County Council on Wednesday afternoon raised red flags at Lahinch Beach indicating a bathing prohibition until further notice. This comes following a routine water sample which showed increased levels of bacteria.
Runoff from the catchment area of the Inagh River after exceptionally heavy rainfall has resulted in elevated levels of bacteria being identified in the water. The Inagh River enters Liscannor Bay at the northern end of Lahinch beach.
In accordance with An Taisce’s Blue Flag programme, the Blue Flag at Lahinch has been removed until such time as the water quality improves. An improvement in water quality is expected over the coming days as drier weather is forecast.
It is the second time in the space of two weeks that bathing restrictions have been implemented in Lahinch. Last Friday, Blue Flags were once again flying at Lahinch following a restriction which was in place since Tuesday.
