Seine Opens for Swimming Amid Heatwave in Paris: Thousands Dive In

UPDATE: The Seine River in Paris is officially open for swimming, attracting locals and tourists alike just as a heatwave is set to hit the city. With temperatures expected to soar to 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) starting tomorrow, the new swimming sites are quickly becoming a summer hotspot.

Thousands of people have already enjoyed a refreshing dip since the launch of three public bathing areas last month, the first in over a century. Paris Deputy Mayor Pierre Rabadan reported that over 40,000 swimmers have taken the plunge at these sites, which are expected to get even busier as the heatwave intensifies.

Located at the Grenelle site in western Paris, these swimming areas provide a unique view of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. As visitors swim among small fish, the city ensures water quality is tested daily to meet strict European regulations. “Right now, the water quality is excellent and we have optimal conditions with warm weather,” Rabadan confirmed.

The Seine had been off-limits for swimming since 1923 due to pollution and navigation hazards, but a massive 1.4 billion euro ($1.6 billion) cleanup effort has made it safe for public swimming. The decision to open the sites daily hinges on weather conditions and water quality, with lifeguards monitoring to ensure safety.

On Monday, the water temperature reached a pleasant 22 degrees Celsius (71 degrees Fahrenheit), making it an inviting option for those seeking relief from the heat. Visitors are required to wear a yellow buoy, attached to their waist, for safety. The sites can accommodate between 800 and 1,200 swimmers per day, limited to 200 at any one time.

“Imagine that,” said Constanze Martens, a tourist from Mexico. “Swimming with a view of the Eiffel Tower and in pure natural water, clean, safe, and with all these lovely people too, you have every age here.”

Changing rooms and lockers are available for convenience, and swimming is free for those aged 10 and older. However, the sites will close temporarily if rainfall leads to increased pollution in the river, as experienced earlier this month.

Marina Gicquel, a lifeguard at Grenelle, highlighted the unique experience: “The main difference from a swimming pool is the river current, along with the murky water. You can only see people’s heads sticking out. That’s why buoys are useful.”

Despite initial skepticism about swimming in the murky waters, many are embracing the experience. Thurkka Jeyakumar, an Australian visitor, initially hesitated but was pleasantly surprised after taking the plunge. “For the moment, I have to say that it was much nicer and cleaner than I thought it would be,” she remarked.

The Seine’s revival as a swimming destination marks a significant change in Paris’s leisure offerings, promising even more opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment as the summer heat intensifies. For those planning to swim, it’s essential to stay updated on local conditions and adhere to safety guidelines.