Flood Water Poses Life-Threatening Health Risks – Drowning Is Only One Of Them

Budapest is still experiencing a severe flood situation, with the Danube River reaching dangerously high levels. Even though the flood is slowly receding, the water still poses a danger to anyone wandering too close. Despite warnings from authorities and the mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karácsony, some individuals have been seen swimming and bathing in the floodwater near the Parliament building.

Experts strongly advise against this behavior, as the Danube’s floodwater is highly contaminated and poses serious health risks. András Késmárki, an ER medic, likens swimming in the Danube during a flood to submerging oneself in wastewater. The water may contain bacteria that can cause life-threatening diseases such as diarrhoea and sepsis. The floodwater carries various debris, including branches, logs, and even parts of fences and garden gates, making it extremely hazardous for swimmers.

During floods, the Danube’s water quality deteriorates significantly due to the increased presence of sewage and other pollutants. The floodwater overflows into sewage treatment plants, leading to a higher concentration of contaminants in the river. As a result, authorities will need to disinfect the embankments once the water recedes.

In addition to the health risks, the Danube’s strong currents during a flood make swimming and other water activities incredibly dangerous. The disaster management agency and the water management authority have called for people to stay away from the river to avoid endangering their lives and hindering flood defense efforts.

It is crucial that residents and visitors in Budapest heed the warnings of experts and authorities and refrain from swimming or engaging in any water activities in the Danube during this flood situation. The risks to personal health and safety are simply too high to ignore.