Unusual odors reported at Palettilampi swimming area in Helsinki

Unusual odors have been reported at the Palettilampi swimming area in Kuninkaantammi, Helsinki. The city has confirmed on its Outdoor Recreation Map platform that the source of the odor is currently under investigation. Environmental services conducted water quality tests on Thursday. Residents are advised to avoid swimming in the area as the water may contain blue-green algae.

Sari Front, an environmental inspector from the City of Helsinki, stated that the odor was first noticed by a lifeguard at the beach. The Palettilampi site is 235 meters long, 140 meters wide, and up to two meters deep. Once a water treatment basin, it now receives fluctuating lake water from the Päijänne Tunnel.

Front noted that the smell at Palettilampi is unusual, as no odors have been detected in Lake Päijänne itself. One theory is that the water replacement rate might be too slow, leading to stagnant conditions. In response, water flow and exchange rates have been increased as a precautionary measure.

“We hope this will resolve the issue and the smell will dissipate,” Front commented. Results from species identification tests are expected to arrive today, although microbiological analysis may take longer. “It will be until tomorrow afternoon before we have more information, unless something clear arises in the meantime,” she added.

The Päijänne Tunnel also supplies drinking water to over one million residents in the Helsinki metropolitan area. This household water is treated prior to use and has previously been rated among the best in the world in international comparisons.