- Severe rainfall has repeatedly impacted Paris since Thursday evening.
- The men’s triathlon swimming practice may face cancellation due to pollution concerns.
Heavy rainfall has been causing significant issues for the Olympics, putting tomorrow’s men’s triathlon swimming practice in the Seine at risk.
Severe downpours have hit Paris numerous times since Thursday evening, disrupting the Opening Ceremony.
These conditions have intensified concerns regarding the river’s cleanliness, which has undergone a £1bn clean-up effort, making it uncertain if it is safe for athletes.
Despite considerable efforts, the risk of pollution, particularly E.coli, remains high, with heavy rain exacerbating issues linked to wastewater management.
The event is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, but the crucial practice session where participants acclimatize to their environment is now at risk.
Severe rainfall has impacted Paris since Thursday evening
Men’s triathlon swimming practice now uncertain
The swift current caused by the relentless rain poses an additional challenge.
Daily assessments are being conducted, with the latest set for 4am on Sunday to decide the next steps.
With rain still falling, Tony Estanguet, head of Paris 2024, expressed his optimism during a press briefing, asserting that swimming in the Seine is still expected to happen for the triathlon.
Conditions are predicted to improve this afternoon, with temperatures anticipated to rise into the 30s beginning Sunday.
British athletes are reportedly using medical cleaning scrubs and probiotics as precautionary measures.
A spokesperson for Paris 2024 commented: ‘The recent rainfall in Paris will likely diminish the water quality in the Seine over the coming 24 to 36 hours.
‘Depending on the current water quality and the forecasted conditions, the familiarisation training scheduled for Sunday 28 July at 8am might be cancelled. A decision will be finalized during the daily situation assessment at 4am on 28 July.’
‘Nonetheless, we are confident in our capacity to execute the events from 30 July as planned. Based on weather predictions for the next 48 hours, we anticipate a return to acceptable water quality levels within 24 to 36 hours.’
‘As demonstrated in July, with warmer, sunnier conditions and less rainfall, the water quality shows considerable improvement.’
