The Municipal Water and Sewerage Company of Malevizi (DEYA Malevizi) has clarified that the swimming ban announced by the Region of Crete applies only to a limited section of Ammoudara Beach surrounding the stormwater outfall—not to the entire coastline.
According to the utility, the restriction issued by the Regional Directorate of Public Health covers a 150-metre radius on either side of the stormwater discharge point, while swimming remains unrestricted along the rest of Ammoudara Beach.
The outfall is located at the end of Erota Street, next to the former OFI amateur football ground (35.337756, 25.090882).
Power Outages Blamed for Sewer Failure
In a separate announcement, DEYA Malevizi said the incident was triggered by repeated power outages, which caused the municipality’s wastewater pumping stations to malfunction. The resulting disruption led to a serious failure in the main sewer network serving the Ammoudara area.
The utility said repair crews were dispatched immediately after the incident was detected and began emergency restoration work.
Municipal cleaning vehicles, together with an external contractor, also carried out extensive cleaning operations in the affected area. DEYA Malevizi said it coordinated its response with the Regional Public Health Service and implemented all recommended public health measures.
Repair work is continuing at an intensive pace, according to the utility, which apologized to residents and visitors for the temporary disruption.
Swimming Allowed Outside the Restricted Zone
Despite the incident, DEYA Malevizi stressed that the swimming prohibition does not extend across Ammoudara Beach.
Authorities say the restriction remains in force only within 150 metres east and west of the stormwater outfall, while the remainder of the beach remains open for swimming.
Visitors are advised to observe warning signs and avoid entering the restricted area until the public health advisory is lifted.